The Galeries Tower Highrisers stepped onto the Philsports Arena court Thursday night with heavy hearts, each player bearing a white ribbon in remembrance of Jeric Importante, a cherished utility staff member who had been a cornerstone of the team’s daily operations and morale.
Facing the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, the Highrisers hoped to channel their grief into a performance that honored Importante's memory. Instead, their emotional burden proved overwhelming, culminating in a straight-sets defeat, 22-25, 16-25, 19-25.
For the players, Importante wasn’t just staff; he was family. His dedication was felt in every practice and game, a presence that transcended his duties. Libero Jewelle Eroa, who joined Galeries at the start of the 2024 PVL season, recalled the impact Importante had on the team.
"Parang nung first conference ko sa Galeries, nandun talaga siya. ‘Di ko rin alam kung gaano na siya katagal, pero sa lahat po talaga ng bagay or sa araw-araw po naming may ensayo, siya po talaga ‘yung kasama namin,” shared Eroa.
"Kahit wala na ‘yung coaches, siya ‘yung naiiwan sa team kasi nagaayos pa. Siya ‘yung nag-aasikaso ng food namin, tapos ng mga gamit."
Importante's sudden passing left a void not just in logistics but also in spirit. His loss reverberated through the team, manifesting in their subdued energy and muted communication during the match.
Coming off three consecutive losses, Galeries hoped to dedicate their first win to Importante. However, the emotional weight proved too great. The Thunderbelles capitalized on the Highrisers' struggles, extending their winning streak while Galeries dropped to 0-4.
"Halos lahat po or wala pong may gustong magsalita," Eroa admitted, reflecting on the emotional toll. "Kasi parang may team member na nga po kaming nawala, parang dinamdam namin talaga ‘yung pagkawala niya na dapat ilaban namin ‘yung game [para sa kanya], pero mas lalo kaming nagluksa. Ganun ‘yung nangyari."
Despite the outcome, the Highrisers showed glimpses of the potential that kept them competitive in earlier matches against powerhouses Choco Mucho and Akari.
Galeries Tower knows that resilience will be key to overcoming both their grief and their winless start. With Importante’s unwavering support as their inspiration, the team is determined to recalibrate and secure the victories he would have celebrated with them.
"Parang ngayong naguumpisa, parang pahirap na po nang pahirap ‘yung sa unang panalo eh," Eroa admitted, acknowledging the challenges of finding their rhythm amidst a highly competitive field. "Parang lahat ng teams nag-iimprove tapos nakukuha nila ‘yung tempo at jelling nila."
As the tournament progresses, the Highrisers aim to translate their grit into tangible results.
"Siguro gagawin din namin ‘yung best namin na maayos po namin at para talaga makapanalo na kami ngayong conference," added the PVL Reinforced Conference Best Libero, embodying the fighting spirit that has defined Galeries Tower.
