University of the Philippines is turning to a familiar face as it enters a new era, with Benson Bocboc returning as head coach of the Fighting Maroons for UAAP Season 89.
Bocboc takes over a UP side undergoing significant changes following the departures of seniors Irah Jaboneta, Joan Monares, and Nina Ytang. Jaboneta and Monares are now in the PVL, while Ytang is part of Alas Pilipinas.
Key spiker Casiey Dongallo is also still working her way back from an ACL injury.
The returning mentor previously guided UP to a 6-8 record and a joint-fifth-place finish in UAAP Season 87 before stepping aside for Italian coach Fabio Menta the following season.
With Menta now retired, the team has brought Bocboc back to provide stability as the Maroons rebuild.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
“Coach Boc proved himself to be a capable coach when he set us up for success in Season 87. Tiwala tayong magagawa niya ulit ang ganun, now [that] we’re entering a new era,” said UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development Director Bo Perasol.
UP will also continue to receive support from sponsor Frank Lao and Strong Group, giving Bocboc and his young core added backing as they prepare for the new season. Among the players expected to take on bigger roles are Kianne Olango, Jelai Gajero, Bienne Bansil, Jaz Manguilomotan, and Julia De Leon.
For Bocboc, however, the focus is on building the team without putting unnecessary pressure on the players.
“No expectations, no pressure muna ulit tayo. Basta rito naman sa UP, ang panigurado, lalaban,” said Bocboc.
Bocboc has already begun preparations for the Maroons’ campaign, with UP set to see action in the 2026 Shakey’s Super League Pre-season Unity Cup.
The veteran coach will also continue his role as an assistant coach for Farm Fresh in the PVL.
Bocboc previously spent eight years on the La Salle coaching staff from 2016 to 2024 and was also part of the F2 Logistics coaching staff during the same period.
