The Philippine basketball community is mourning the untimely passing of former collegiate standout JV Gallego, who died in a car crash in Libtong, Meycauayan, Bulacan on Saturday.

He was 28.

According to reports, Gallego and his wife were traveling back to Manila along the northbound lane of the North Luzon Expressway when the accident occurred.

A 5-foot-10 guard from Chiang Kai Shek College (CKSC), Gallego established himself as one of the country’s promising backcourt players after representing Gilas Pilipinas Youth in the 2016 FIBA Asia U18 Championship, where the Filipinos finished seventh.

He went on to play for National University in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines from 2015 to 2019 before transferring to San Beda University to continue his collegiate career.

Gallego reached the pinnacle of his collegiate journey in 2023 after helping the Red Lions capture the NCAA Season 99 men’s basketball championship with a finals victory over Mapua University.

He also had a brief professional stint in 2024, suiting up for Bicol in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League.

Following news of his passing, tributes flooded social media from former teammates, coaches, schools and friends who remembered him not only for his talent on the court but also for his character.

Former CKSC teammate and Titan Ultra guard Fran Yu shared an emotional farewell.

“To my Batman since Day 1. Thank you for being an incredible person, a great teammate, and a true friend from the very beginning. Thank you for every memory, every laugh and every moment we shared on and off the court.”

“Your kindness, heart, and presence made a difference to all of us. You’ll always be remembered, and you’ll forever be a part of our team and our family.”

Colegio San Agustin Makati, where Gallego served as a member of the coaching staff, also honored its fallen mentor.

“Coach JV will be remembered not only for his dedication to the sport of basketball but also for the passion, guidance, and unwavering commitment he shared with every student-athlete whose lives he touched. His kindness, leadership, and love for the Augustinian community have left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations of Augustinians.” I. Suing

“As we grieve this significant loss, we offer our heartfelt prayers for the eternal repose of his soul, and extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, players, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.”