University of the East’s search for a new chief tactician has finally ended.
Jack Santiago has been tapped to lead the Red Warriors to new heights, multiple sources closely monitoring the situation have told Tiebreaker Times.
Santiago is no stranger to the collegiate game, since he has been the top lieutenant of current Adamson head coach Franz Pumaren for the last two decades.
The councilor from Navotas was with Pumaren during his days with De La Salle University, Air 21, Globalport, and, later on, Adamson.
This time around, Santiago has a tough task ahead of him. UE is currently in the midst of an 11-year Final Four drought in the UAAP Men’s Basketball Tournament.
Santiago replaced the coaching duo of the late Bong Tan and active consultant Lawrence Chongson, who steered UE to a 4-10 record in Season 82. This is UE’s fourth coaching change in as many years.
The other candidates for the post were Jamike Jarin, Allan Caidic, and Jerry Codinera.
Last year, Santiago, a product of Mapua, was also in the running to take over the Cardinals but Randy Alcantara was ultimately selected by the school.
A source added that Santiago will be introduced to the team on Monday, January 20.
