UST-SMC deal not yet finalized, clarifies team manager

Alfrancis Chua's new role with his alma mater is not yet final says Waiyip Chong. Dennis Acosta (file photo)

By Stewart Tan

MANILA—There is still no final agreement between University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers and the San Miguel Corporation regarding the latter's backing for the former.

Tigers team manager Waiyip Chong said SMC sports director Alfrancis Chua has yet to agree to throw his support to his alma mater.

"Wala pang agreement so far, but we continue to convince him to help his alma mater," Chong told Dugout Philippines on Tuesday.

This was amid a report from UST's official publication The Varsitarian late Monday night and pictures of Chua with UST IPEA head Fr. Rodel Cansancio, OP that went viral online.

According to Chong, Chua just dropped by the dinner hosted by newly-signed UST head coach Alfredo "Pido" Jarencio.

"Boss Al was invited by coach Pido to join us in our dinner last night since he was just in nearby and nagpapicture lang sa kanya si Fr. Rodel but no deal yet," Chong said.

"But we are very hopeful that Boss Al will throw his support to the Growling Tigers soon. His help will definitely be a big boost to our team's revival," he added.

Rumors of UST-SMC deal first surfaced on Monday afternoon after a picture of Chua's nameplate with a designation of "special assistant to the rector for basketball of UST" went viral online.

The role is similar to his previous job at Letran back when SMC was backing the squad.

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