Marck Espejo returns, banners Philippines in AVC Challenge Cup for Men

Marck Espejo is making his national team comeback when the Philippine men's volleyball team competes in the 2023 AVC Challenge Cup for Men in Taipei, Chinese Taipei on July 8.

Espejo, who did not suit up during the 32nd SEA Games in Cambodia last May, will be joined by Lloyd Josafat, Noel Kampton, Chumason Njigha, Kim Dayadante, Madz Gampong, Ryan Ka, Vince Lorenzo, Vince Mangulabnan, Steven Rotter, and Manuel Sumanguid.

Espejo will also get to reunite with Rex Intal, Joshua Umandal, and Kim Malabunga, whom he played with when the country bagged silver in the 30th SEA Games in 2019.

The Filipinos have been grouped in Pool D, where they will face Macau on July 9 and Mongolia on July 10.

Head coach Segio Veloso remains at the helm with Odjie Mamon and Rommel Abella serving as his deputy.

Of the 17 teams, only 12 will advance to the Final 12 in the playoff round.

—Bea Micaller/JKC, GMA Integrated News