UST GOLDEN SPIKERS main gunner Josh Ybañez emerged as the Best Libero of the first leg of the 2026 Southeast Asia V Cup in Candon City, Ilocos Sur on Sunday, July 19.
The Mindanao-native led Alas Pilipinas Men in defense to earn his second Best Libero recognition, following the same honor he earned during the second leg of the 2025 Southeast Asia V. League in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Ybañez anchored the backcourt as the only libero fielded by head coach Angiolino Frigoni throughout all three matches of the campaign.
The three-time UAAP MVP along with UST standout opposite spiker Al-Bukharie Sali represented the Philippines as part of the final 14-man roster.
Alas Pilipinas wrapped up its campaign in fifth place after sweeping Myanmar for its lone victory of the tournament, following losses to eventual finalists Cambodia and Indonesia.
The win also marked the first for the current national team, which was formed only in May.
The second leg of the Southeast Asia V Cup will be held from July 22-26 in Jakarta, Indonesia. F
