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FILE–Alas Pilipinas’ Bryan Bagunas and Marck Espejo celebrate a point against Egypt during their FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship game. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines —Bryan Bagunas and Marck Espejo signed fresh contracts with their respective overseas clubs as they seek to build on title-winning campaigns next season.
The Osaka Bluteon renewed Bagunas for the next Japan SV.League season after winning a championship in their 2025-26 campaign.
“We are pleased to announce that we have renewed the contract with Bryan Bagunas. He will continue to fight alongside everyone as a member of Bruteon in the 2026-27 season, aiming for the top,” the team announced.
Bagunas made history as the first Filipino men’s volleyball player to win the prestigious championship in Japan after Osaka pulled off a series comeback with a 25-22, 25-20, 25-18 sweep in Game 3 to dethrone the Suntory Sunbirds.
“Honored to renew with Osaka Bluteon!” said Bagunas in a statement. “Thank you to the club, my teammates, and all the fans for the incredible support. I’m excited for another season and ready to give my all. Let’s make more history together.”
Bryan Bagunas.–Photo from Bryan Bagunas’ Instagram
The 28-year-old outside hitter returned to Japan after making a successful comeback from a knee injury, helping Alas Pilipinas earn a historic win over Egypt in the FIVB Men’s World Championship.
It was his third overseas stint after winning two titles and one MVP trophy for WinStreak Club in Taiwan. He made his international debut also in Japan with Oita Miyoshi.
Bagunas found himself in the stacked rotation of the Bluteon during the regular season, where the team finished second with a 38-6 record behind top seed Suntory. He scored a total of 31 points built on 23 kills, five blocks, and three aces in 39 matches.
Espejo was also renewed by TSG Skyhawks after winning the Taiwan Professional Volleyball League.
“Marck has become an important force at both ends of the team’s attack and defense with comprehensive attack ability and stable defensive performance. The attack success rate is as high as 46.6 percent, whether in the regular season or key games, it can show stable output, bringing substantial contributions to the team,” said the Skyhawks.
“In addition to his performance on the field, Marck’s positive attitude and professionalism have also been recognized by the team, and his rich international experience not only enhances the overall competitiveness of the team, but also brings a positive impact on the teammates.”
Espejo became the first Filipino volleyball player to win overseas pro titles from two different countries, following his title run with the Incheon Korean Air Jumbos in South Korea two years ago.
The Alas Pilipinas star followed the footsteps of Bagunas, who won two titles in the Taiwan League in 2023 and 2024 with the WinStreak Volleyball club.
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Espejo, who also played in Japan, Thailand, and Bahrain, made his comeback in international club play after leading Alas’ FIVB World Championship debut and bronze medal finish in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games last December.
