The UAAP unveiled plans to build the "Home of the UAAP", a state-of-the-art facility in Pasig City, set to become the central venue for UAAP events.
The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) and Akari Lighting & Technology Corp. have entered a partnership to build the "Home of the UAAP", a state-of-the-art facility on Amang Rodrigue Avenue in Pasig City.
This was formalized by signing a memorandum at Atencio-Libunao Hall, University of the Philippines Diliman, on Tuesday, August 20, ushering in a new chapter for UAAP and collegiate sports.
The project, covering 1.8 hectares, will serve as a central hub for UAAP events. It will feature a seating capacity of 6,000.
The UAAP Board of Trustees and Managing Directors initiated this endeavor, acknowledging the league's growing needs and future ambitions.
To lead the project, UAAP Season 85 President Fr. Aldrin Suan, CM of Adamson University, was appointed Chairperson of the negotiating panel for the "Home of the UAAP".
Negotiations between Akari and the UAAP started in March 2023, with ASYA Design Partner and led by principal architect Albert Yu, unveiling the concept design by May 2023.
UAAP Season 87 Chairman and University of the Philippines President Atty. Angelo “Jijil” Jimenez expressed his gratitude for the collaboration.
"We are incredibly thankful to Akari for this generous partnership. After years of dreaming and planning, the UAAP finally has a place to call home. This facility will not only host competitions but will also stand as a testament to the spirit of unity and excellence that the UAAP represents,” said Jimenez.
"At Akari, we believe in building legacies that go beyond lighting solutions. This Home of the UAAP project is our way of supporting grassroots sports development, where young student-athletes can grow, excel, and shine on the national stage. I am honored that Akari is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of varsity sports in the Philippines,” added Akari Chief Executive Officer Christopher Tiu.
The Home of the UAAP is set to become the premier venue for amateur sports in the Philippines, providing a dedicated space for future generations of student-athletes to shine.
"Today's event is the result of a process that began with the UAAP's need and desire for a home, and Akari's vision of leaving a lasting legacy in the sports community. The concept evolved from Akari's desire to collaborate with the UAAP through merchandise licensing, which we launched last season, and has now blossomed into this groundbreaking partnership. Today, we celebrate the culmination of these efforts here at UP,” said Fr. Aldrin Suan, CM.
UAAP Executive Director Atty. Rene “Rebo” Saguisag Jr. also shared his enthusiasm for the development, which had been long discussed among league officials.
"The Home of the UAAP is not just for the league; it is for the student-athletes who are the heart and soul of the UAAP. This is their home—a place where they can compete, grow, and thrive,” Saguisag said.
He clarified that while the new venue will host many events, games will still be held at larger venues like the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao and the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
“The 6,000-seating capacity is based on the average attendance of most games, but the larger, high-profile games will continue to be held in our bigger venues,” Saguisag added.
Construction is set to begin soon, with completion expected in three years, just in time for National University to host Season 90.