Embattled ex-University of Santo Tomas head coach Aldin Ayo felt a sense of vindication after the Sorsogon City Police and Governor Chiz Escudero absolved him of any liability stemming from the controversial Bicol bubble.
“I feel vindicated by the result of the Sorsogon City PNP Investigation on the alleged IATF violations in our activity in Capuy, Sorsogon; which result, was duly confirmed by the Office of the Governor of the Province of Sorsogon,” his statement read.
Based on the report, no supervised basketball training took place inside Ayo’s compound in Capuy, Sorsogon from late June to early August.
As noted by the report — prepared by Master Sargeant Jungie Vito and verified by Police Major Pedro Jimenez — 17 members of the Growling Tigers were allowed to travel from their respective provinces to Sorsogon because they had to work in his farm. The agriculture industry is an essential sector based on the guidelines set by the Inter-Agency Task Force.
Ayo resigned from his post last September 4, and received an indefinitely ban from the UAAP last September 9. Now, he hopes that this would help in his appeal.
“It is a big boost to my appeal for a reconsideration of the UAAP indefinite ban imposed upon me.”
The league based its decision on the internal probe by UST.
Ayo went on record with his testimony that farming was the reason he invited the Growling Tigers to his home. However, it was “overlooked” in the report.
“I have dutifully raised matters overlooked by the UST fact-finding committee in their findings which became the basis for the UAAP decision. These pertinent matters, if properly considered, may significantly alter the decision of the UAAP Board.”
UAAP rules state that appeals should have an endorsement from any of the eight members of the league.
But with the police report — which he said was conducted by proper authority — it proves that he did not violate any of IATF protocol.
“The result of the investigation conducted by the proper government authorities, the PNP, on the ground – at my house and farm, will certainly complement my position on the matter: that I have not in any way violated any national and local government health protocol or IATF regulations.”
