UST vows approriate action

MANILA, Philippines — University of Santo Tomas has officially launched its internal probe on the alleged training bubble by its basketball team in Sorsogon, vowing to make appropriate action.

In a statement, UST promised to act on the matter and reiterated that it does not “tolerate any form of violation of government protocols.”

“We heard the news about the alleged breach of quarantine protocols by the UST basketball team in Sorsogon. Accordingly, we created a committee to investigate and to inquire into the matter,” the school said.

“While we adhere to the belief that physical activity can have a profoundly positive impact on the students’ physical and mental health, we believe that the undertaking should be done in compliance with the guidelines issued by the government. We always endeavor to support the concerted government effort to ensure that proper social and physical environments are in place,” the statement added.

On Saturday, the Philippine Sports Commission started to look into the matter after a meeting with officials from Games and Amusements Board, Department of Health and the UAAP led by executive director Atty. Rebo Saguisag and president Nonong Calanog.

UST “respectfully declined” to attend the meeting with an assurance of having its own probe.

“We wish to assure you that the university does not tolerate any form of violation of government regulation, and it responds promptly by taking the appropriate action,” UST vowed.

Meanwhile, UST coach Aldin Ayo has remained mum on the issue as of press time.

Issues have swarmed the España camp over the past days following ex-captain CJ Cansino’s exit and transfer over to the UP Maroons.

One critical issue was the reported Tigers’ training in coach Ayo’s hometown in Sorsogon.

Cansino refused to confirm nor deny the controversial “bubble” but admitted being dropped out of the squad due to “defiance of authority,” leading to his transfer to University of the Philippines.

The said bubble raised a possible quarantine protocol breach as the government’s Joint Administrative Order (JAO) for training resumption covers only professional sports.