JV Gallego, former San Beda guard, dies in car crash

JV Gallego won an NCAA title with San Beda after playing four seasons with National U.–Photo from JV Gallego’s Facebook

MANILA, Philippines—The Philippine basketball scene lost another young talent following the death of JV Gallego, a former San Beda Red Lion and National University Bulldog, in a car crash along the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX). He was 28.

VP Global Management, Gallego’s talent agency, confirmed his passing on Saturday afternoon via Facebook post.

“Beyond the basketball court, JV will be remembered for the life he lived, the people he touched, and the legacy he leaves behind,” they wrote.

“Our heartfelt condolences and prayers go out to his family, friends, teammates, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”

Gallego was on the way back to Manila with his wife when the road accident happened along NLEX in Meycauayan, Bulacan.

READ: JV Gallego, CKSC standout, making hoop waves

Fran Yu, Gallego’s former high school teammate at Chiang Kai Shek who now plays for Titan Ultra in the PBA, paid tribute in a heartfelt message on social media.

“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,” wrote Yu.

“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.”

Gallego played four seasons with NU in the UAAP before helping San Beda win the NCAA Season 99 championship in 2023.

He also suited up for Gilas Pilipinas Youth during the 2016 Fiba Asia U18 Championship.