By: Joaquin Cortez
Jessie Lacuna made his UAAP return not in the familiar blue and white of Ateneo, but in a crisp green shirt.
The two-time Olympian, a cornerstone of Ateneo’s swimming dynasty that dominated UAAP Seasons 77 to 81 and began its run of 10 straight championships, collected four MVP titles and 35 gold medals during his collegiate career.
After two decades of elevating Philippine swimming — performing on the sport’s brightest stages, inspiring generations, and setting the standard as the fastest Filipino male swimmer — Lacuna has stepped into a new role: assistant coach of De La Salle University.
Despite the storied rivalry between Ateneo and La Salle across nearly every sport, Lacuna embraces the challenge.
“Masaya ako na ma-experience ang isang bagong environment,” Lacuna shared.
“Ateneo, doon ako unang nakilala as a swimmer. Pero after many years, na-realize ko na I want to help the swimming community as a whole.”
The 31-year-old Bulakeño added that the transition was smooth, with no lingering tension from his Ateneo days.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“In all honesty, bago ako pumasok, I really took time to think about it. But it’s all about the challenge and it’s all about the sport,” he said.
“‘Nong nalaman ng nasa blue side, marami ring nag-congratulate. Walang bad blood.”
Once the fastest Filipino in the pool, Lacuna competed in the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, falling short of medals in the 200- and 400-meter freestyle heats.
Yet his swimming résumé speaks volumes: 51 gold medals overall, including 35 in national competitions and 16 internationally.
Lacuna’s vision for La Salle is clear.
The men’s team will center around Peter Dean, Alexander Chu, and Kenzie Dumanglas, while the women’s squad will be anchored by Jie Talosig, Ysabella Alcazar, and Dianna Cruz for years to come.
During the competition, the Green Tankers finished second with 294 points while the Lady Tankers placed third with 222.
Having carried the torch for Philippine swimming, Lacuna feels determined to instill confidence and inspire the next generation.
“Number one is boosting their confidence,” Lacuna said.
“Alam natin na Ateneo ang powerhouse sa swimming ngayon. Pero gusto kong dalhin dito ‘yong environment na kinalakihan ko — yung spirit and belief na may opportunities beyond UAAP.”
