The UE Red Warriors may be out of Final Four contention, but signs of a brighter future are beginning to show behind the emergence of Raquim Aceron and Roy Piojo in the UAAP Season 88 Men’s Volleyball Tournament.
Despite their early exit, the Red Warriors delivered one of their biggest wins of the season after sweeping the La Salle Green Spikers, 25-21, 28-26, 26-24, at the Quadricentennial Pavilion, effectively eliminating them from Final Four contention.
Aceron and Piojo once again led the charge, with Aceron tallying 19 points and 22 excellent receptions, and Piojo adding 14 points, 6 excellent receptions, and 4 excellent digs.
For assistant coach Jumbo Dimaculangan, the duo has become the foundation of the team’s rebuild.
“Itong dalawang ito, I think it’s destiny na napunta sila sa UE,” said Dimaculangan. “As early as last year, china-challenge na namin sila na they have to carry the load. Sila talaga ‘yung magdadala ng team.”
Aceron Taking on Bigger Role
After a winless Season 87 campaign, the Red Warriors have shown progress this year, already surpassing their previous output with three victories and more competitive matches.
“Ang challenge ko na sa kanila this year—last year you performed well individually. Ngayon, how they will uplift their teammates. Kailangan hindi lang silang dalawa,” Dimaculangan added.
Aceron, who nearly stepped away from volleyball before joining the program, has embraced a leadership role for the Red Warriors.
“We’re very happy sa resulta ng laro kasi ito ‘yung pinagtatrabahuhan namin each day. Last season, ‘yun ‘yung naging motivation ko na baguhin kung paano kami nakikilala ng tao,” Aceron said. “Ngayon, nagsisimula pa lang kami. Hindi kami titigil dito; patuloy kaming mag-strive para mas umangat pa,” he added.
Piojo Hitting His Stride
Piojo, meanwhile, emerged as a key piece despite a slow start to his collegiate career, eventually finding his rhythm and becoming a consistent contributor this season.
With a young roster still intact and no graduating players this year, the Red Warriors are banking on continuity as they continue their rebuild.
“You will still see the same faces next year. Wala pa namang ga-graduate, so this will be good for the UE men’s volleyball team for the coming years,” said Dimaculangan.
The Red Warriors will close their campaign against the Ateneo Blue Eagles on Saturday, April 18, at 9:00 a.m., looking to carry momentum into next season.
