GIVEN their success over the years and the ongoing anticipation around the college league, the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) is poised to reach new heights with its own stadium.
We’re home, they say, as the UAAP announced on Tuesday that they are teaming with Akari to create their new home, a cutting-edge arena that will begin construction in the last quarter of 2025, and is expected to finish by 2027.
Photo Courtesy: Asya Construction / Akari
Atty. Atencio-Libunao, UAAP executive director, spoke at the University of the Philippines (UP). Rene “Rebo” Saguisag said that the groundbreaking arena will be built in Bridgetowne Estate in Pasig City.
A permanent home
In an interview, Atty. Saguisag stated that the new arena will not only serve as a new home for the athletes, but also as a permanent one in the coming years. That is why they refer to this as “The Home of UAAP.”
“‘The Home of the UAAP’ is not just for the league itself. It is for the student-athletes who represent the heart and soul of the UAAP. This is their home; a place where they can compete, grow, and thrive,” said the executive.
Aside from the grand idea of having a single venue to host all of the games, the UAAP has emphasized the importance of stability, considering that they kept offices on the campuses of the hosts each season prior to 2020.
“Una, it was born out of necessity, out of need. Pero listening to all the people din deep inside, each one of us, we’re looking for a home eh. You want to actually realize the dream of having your own home,” he added.
“It’s about stability. If you have a home, you have stability. And I think, every student-athlete, may factor din diyan yung familiarity with the venue. So ‘pag familiar ka sa venue, pwedeng tumaas performance mo.”
Photo Courtesy: Asya Construction / Akari
UAAP also guaranteed that the arena that will soon be built will not only meet the needs of the athletes, but will also provide the well-rounded experience that spectators desire.
“Watching the UAAP is an experience, so we will have coffee, dining, and what we have in the malls. So it’s interactive and immersive not only for the student-athletes but for all,” said Atty. Saguisag.
What about the big games?
The 6,000-capacity arena has no formal name yet, but it will host the league’s indoor sports at both the collegiate and high school levels, including basketball, volleyball, and badminton.
“Six thousand ang capacity, pero there are seating arrangements na maaaring ma-optimize mo eh, adjustable. So maglalaro siya sa six to seven thousand.”
“Mahirap din kasing magpatayo ng masyadong malaki. Unang una, masyadong mahal. Number two, mahirap din namang punuin,” added Atty. Saguisag.
Photo Courtesy: Asya Construction / Akari
Meanwhile, a 6,000-capacity arena is insufficient for massive matches such as the Battle of Katipunan and the rivalry game between Ateneo and La Salle. Big games like these will continue to be hosted in Araneta Coliseum or the Mall of Asia Arena.
Aside from the UAAP, the arena can hold games for the PBA, PVL, and even its rival league, the NCAA. The UAAP Home is expected to run in Season 90.
