Forthsky Padrigao, one of the most polarizing figures in recent UAAP history, ended his collegiate career not with triumph, but with gratitude.
The former Ateneo de Manila University gold medalist was simply thankful that University of Santo Tomas gave him another chance to compete in the country’s premier varsity league.
Padrigao’s UAAP journey concluded after UST’s 82-81 loss to defending champion and finals-bound University of the Philippines in the Final Four of Season 88.
The 5-foot-10 court general, however, chose to focus on the positives rather than dwell on what could have been.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“I think I gave it my all naman kanina,” Padrigao said after contributing six points and four assists. “Wala naman akong pinagsisihan. Last year, pangit din ng exit ko — ejected ako. Sana may another chance para makabawi, but then hindi napunta sa atin.
“I’m just really thankful na na-experience ko ito and I just gave it all on the court.”
He also praised the growth of the younger players, seeing the team’s progress as a bright spot despite the loss.
“Siyempre, we’re not happy with the result, but personally I’m really happy about our team kasi yung improvement ng mga bata from last season to this season — it’s a big leap for them and for UST. Hopefully, it’s something to be excited about for the upcoming seasons.”
Padrigao’s transfer to UST after Season 85 capped a controversial chapter in his career.
While other schools rejected the chance to recruit him, UST welcomed him, providing not just a court but a path toward personal growth.
For that, he remains grateful.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“From the moment I committed to UST, si Coach Pido (Jarencio), nung nag-dinner kami, he welcomed me with open arms. Parang kaming friends na,” he recalled.
“Yung pag-welcome nila sa akin, nag-extend through Fr. Rodel (Cansancio), sa IPEA officers, sa admin namin, to our professors, the community, and my classmates. Thankful talaga ako kasi binigyan nila ako ng second chance sa UAAP career ko.”
Beyond giving him a second chance, UST also entrusted Padrigao with a leadership role.
The responsibility deepened his bond with teammates and allowed him to enjoy the camaraderie that comes with being a senior in the squad.
“Yung leadership ko kasi, sila rin nagpadala, yung teammates ko. I’m just one of the guys. Siyempre may respeto sila kasi mas matanda ako, pero on a daily basis, parang lang kaming magkatropa. Alam namin kung kailan magseseryoso — when it’s business time. That’s what I really like about our team,” he said.
Off-court bonding is what Padrigao will miss the most, though he’s confident the team is poised for future success.
“Dami kasi naming bondings off the court eh. That’s what I’ll really miss. On the court, I’m just really excited for them in the coming seasons and I really wish them well.”
For Padrigao, UST provided closure.
After leaving Ateneo under a cloud, his time with the Growling Tigers allowed him not only to grow as a basketball player but also as a person.
The UAAP will always hold a special place in his heart as he prepares for the professional ranks.
“I’m really grateful na na-experience ko to. I’ve been to Ateneo, I’ve been to UST.
“Just really grateful for the experiences: yung wins, yung losses, yung learnings. I’m just really absorbing everything, trying to be present, and being thankful for everything,” closed Padrigao, who was once a young kid from Zamboanga, dreaming of making it to the big leagues.
#WATCH: JUST THANKFUL FOR EVERYTHING
Forthsky Padrigao has nothing but gratitude to both Ateneo 🦅 and UST 🐯 for all the learnings and memories 🏀#ReadMore 👉 https://t.co/8gOexYgPpW
📹 @lorenzodelc /Tiebreaker Times#UAAPSeason88 pic.twitter.com/7cmfXHbAlx
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) December 3, 2025
