By: Miguel Caramoan
Amid the NCAA Season 101 Seniors Basketball semifinals, College of Saint Benilde head coach Charles Tiu remains focused on the task at hand, even as one of his star players, Allen Liwag, received a historic call-up to Gilas Pilipinas Men.
Benilde finds itself down 1-0 against powerhouse San Beda, but Tiu is confident that Liwag can handle the dual responsibilities.
“Got a call from Coach Norman (Black) a few weeks ago about the possibility of Allen joining the SEA Games lineup, and of course, we agreed,” Tiu shared.
“Representing your country in any international tournament is the dream of almost every Filipino athlete — let alone being part of the national team for the SEA Games. There was no hesitation or second thought on our part, even in the middle of the NCAA Final Four. It’s a sacrifice, but anytime you have the chance to serve your country, you have to take it.”
Liwag, the NCAA Season 100 MVP, is making history as the first active NCAA player to be called up to Gilas since Calvin Oftana during the FIBA Asia Cup 2021 Qualifiers.
The 6-foot-6 big man will join fellow collegiate standouts Ced Manzano of Adamson and Veejay Pre of UP, alongside seasoned veterans Jamie Malonzo, Dalph Panopio, Thirdy Ravena, Matthew Wright, Ray Parks, Justin Chua, Robert Bolick, Von Pessumal, and Abu Tratter.
The regional meet is set to take place at the Nimibutr Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, from December 13 to 19, 2025.
“Seeing how far Allen has come — from a school in Laguna to becoming a national team member — is truly an honor,” Tiu said.
“And while some players ask for money to represent the country, this guy just wants to be part of the team, and that says a lot about him.”
According to Tiu, if the Blazers reach the finals, Black allowed Liwag to join the national team after the NCAA ends.
“We’re confident he can handle both responsibilities — focusing on Benilde and our campaign, while also being there for the national team,” said Tiu.
“Hopefully, he can lead us back to the NCAA finals. One game at a time.”
