Pido Jarencio makes UST return official

Pido Jarencio formally signed a three-year contract with University of Santo Tomas on Monday to seal his return as head coach of the Growling Tigers.

Jarencio, who steered the Growling Tigers to their last University Athletic Association of the Philippines men's basketball title back in 2006, was welcomed by the Dominican priests led by Rector Fr. Richard G. Ang, OP and Institute of Physical Education and Athletics director Fr. Rodel S. Cansancio, OP, during the contract signing.

Known for his "Pride, Puso, Palaban" mantra, the 58-year-old mentor hopes to restore the lost glory of the Tigers in his return after a decade since leaving his post to pursue a professional coaching career with Globalport in the Philippine Basketball Association.

Jarencio, who replaced former Barangay Ginebra teammate Bal David, vows to turn UST's fortune around in the UAAP Season 86.

Under David, who lasted only six months in his post, the Tigers only managed to win one game in 14 outings last year.

"I'm facing a tough task. What is important right now is we start with a solid foundation," he said. "They should play with pride representing UST."

Jarencio handled UST for eight years, guiding the team to two more Finals appearances before being hired as the head coach for Globalport.

"We have a lot of work to do, but what is that the players trust the system," Jarencio said.

Incoming third-year forward Nic Cabañero will lead the charge anew for UST as they aim to gain respectability and make a run for the Final Four.

Joining Jarencio's staff are team managers Waiyip Chong and Eric Ang, and assistant coaches Japs Cuan, Juben Ledesma, Lester del Rosario, Jeric Fortuna, and Jaren Jarencio, strength and conditioning coach Reil Vinard Espino, physical therapists RC Cua and Jose Aveluni Vergara, and academic coach Ian Herrera.

Three-time National Collegiate Athletic Association champion coach Bonnie Tan will also serve as the team consultant.