By: Nicole Parallag
When the final baton crossed the line in the men’s 4×400-meter relay last November 9, Ateneo de Manila University ended a long wait.
After years of waiting, the Blue Eagles reclaimed the UAAP gold in the event, ending a drought that stretched back to Season 77 — and leading the charge were twin brothers Hassan and Hussein Loraña.
For Hussein, this victory capped a remarkable start to his collegiate career.
From being the Season 86 Most Valuable Player representing Adamson University in the high school division to earning Rookie of the Year honors in his first collegiate season, his journey has been one of growth and gratitude.
“Honestly, it feels really special,” he said. “Coming from being the MVP back in Season 86 during my junior years, then starting my college journey by receiving the Rookie of the Year award, I feel very thankful.”
The transition wasn’t without its hurdles.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
Hussein had originally planned to continue his studies after his high school season and pursue an athletic career at an NCAA Division 1 university. But the dream didn’t materialize due to unforeseen circumstances, causing him to miss a season before making his collegiate debut in Season 87.
“It was a bit disappointing at first, but I took it as a chance to refocus and prepare myself for what’s next,” he admitted.
The former Soaring Falcon explained why he chose Ateneo over continuing at Adamson.
“I chose to go with Ateneo because I believe it is where I can grow more, both as a student and as an athlete. I wanted to challenge myself in a new environment and continue improving not just in sports but also in academics and character,” he shared.
For his twin brother Hassan, now in his second year with the Blue Eagles, watching Hussein follow in his footsteps has been both proud and emotional.
“It makes me really proud to see him win Rookie of the Year,” Hassan shared. “I’ve seen all the work he’s put in — the late nights, the training, the discipline. Passing the torch to him feels great, not just as an athlete but as his brother.”
This season, the Loraña twins competed side by side for Ateneo for the first time.
“Having Hussein on the team makes things more fun and motivating,” Hassan said. “We’ve both worked so hard to get here. Sharing the track with him feels like everything’s come full circle.”
Their chemistry extended beyond relays.
On Day 1 of the competition, Hassan turned heads with a dominant performance in the men’s 800 meters. He smashed the record in the morning heats with a blazing 1:51.76, before converting that into a gold medal in the evening finals at 1:52.71.
The Loraña twins nearly pulled off a 1-2 finish in the event, but Far Eastern University’s Gervickson Labora edged out Hussein for silver with 1:53.47, leaving the previous season’s Rookie of the Year, Hassan, with 1:53.8 for bronze.
And just when it seemed their weekend couldn’t get any better, the twins powered Ateneo to a long-awaited 4×400-meter relay gold.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“Being the anchor came with pressure but I just focused on finishing strong. I want to give credit to my brother and the rest of the relay team,” recalled Hussein. “I’m just proud of how we came together and made it happen for Ateneo, bringing back the title after so many seasons.”
“I’m really proud of our team, especially Hussein for finishing it strong,” added Hassan, who ran one of the earlier legs, recalling the moment his twin crossed the line.
Athletics runs in the Lorañas’ blood.
Their father, Bonifacio Loraña, a well-respected coach for the Philippine National Team, and their older brother, Yussef, who once represented San Sebastian College-Recoletos, helped shape their foundation.
Yet for Hassan and Hussein, legacy isn’t something to rest on but something to build.
“Coming from a family known in athletics is something I’m proud of,” Hussein said. “But I want to be remembered not just because of my last name — I want people to see the hard work, the dedication. I want to represent the country and inspire young athletes to chase their dreams.”
“I want my story to be about consistency and discipline. More than medals, I want to inspire others to believe in what they can achieve and to give back to the sport that’s given us so much,” Hassan echoed.
Now, as Hussein prepares for the upcoming Southeast Asian Games and both twins look ahead to their next UAAP season, their focus remains clear.
“Our goal is to come back stronger and more consistent,” Hussein said.
“We’re not chasing results, just focusing on doing the right things every day. When the time comes, we’ll be ready.”
