UAAP to construct new 6,000-seater arena in Pasig by 2027
The athletes for the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) will soon have a new playing field!
The UAAP has teamed up with Akari Lighting & Technology Corp. to construct a new arena on Amang Rodriguez Avenue in Pasig City that will be able to hold a total of 6,000 seats.
According to One Sports, the arena was initiated by the UAAP Board of Trustees and Managing Directors after "acknowledging the league's growing needs and future ambitions."
Dubbed as "Home of the UAAP," the 1.8-hectare structure was outlined by ASYA Design Partner and will serve as the "central hub" for events and activities organized by the athletic conference.
Its exterior design takes inspiration from the shape of the number eight to symbolize the eight participating schools, with the outside lights also having eight colors.
UAAP Season 87 Chairman and University of the Philippines President Atty. Angelo Jimenez expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership.
"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,” Jimenez said.
UAAP Executive Director Atty. Rene Saguisag Jr. underscored that the new arena serves to benefit student-athletes in the Philippines who are aiming to further improve their skills.
"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," he said.
Akari Chief Executive Officer Christopher Tiu meanwhile highlighted that the project is their way of "supporting grassroots sports development, where young student-athletes can grow, excel, and shine on the national stage."
While this is so, Saguisag clarified that games that will have larger audiences will still be held at venues like the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao and the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City as the 6,000-seating capacity is only "based on the average attendance of most games."
The arena is set to be completed three years from now in 2027, in time for National University to host Season 90.
The UAAP is comprised of Adamson University, Ateneo de Manila University, De La Salle University, Far Eastern University, National University, University of the East, University of the Philippines Diliman, and the University of Santo Tomas.