LPU–Lyceum of the Philippines University–Cavite has secured the transfer of one of the top young guards in the juniors division.
Luke Rose, a 16-year-old guard from Pavia, Iloilo, is moving from St Roberts International Academy, Iloilo to LPU–Cavite for senior high school.
Newly minted Junior Pirates head coach Chico Lanete is looking forward to helping develop Rose.
“Si Luke ay isang batang player na kitang-kita na ang maturity niya. Galing siya sa isang magandang programa, kaya nakikita namin ang malaking potensyal niya hindi lang bilang scorer, kundi bilang isang leader,” said Lanete, the LPU legend from Ormoc City who had a 12-year PBA career.
“Sa LPU, gusto namin siyang tulungan na mag-improve both on and off the court.”
Rose made national notoriety during the 2025 Palarong Pambansa in Ilocos Norte.
Despite standing just 5-foot-4, he led Western Visayas in the annual national youth tournament while also earning a spot in the Mythical Team.
Advising Rose to join LPU was former Pirates guard Spencer Pretta.
“Spencer played a big role in helping Luke see what LPU stands for. We are grateful for alumni like him who continue to give back by guiding young athletes toward the right path,” said LPU athletics director Dr. Allan Layco.
“At LPU, we don’t just build players—we build students anchored on love of God, discipline, and leadership, values that also align with the Rose family.”
Rose will have two years of eligibility starting in NCAA Season 102.
Meanwhile, Cromwel Garcia will now focus solely on LPU–Cavite’s girls volleyball program as LPU–Manila searches for a new women’s volleyball head coach.
Garcia spent the last five years with the Lady Pirates. Last season, LPU reached the play-in stage.
“We are deeply grateful to Coach Cromwel for his five years of dedicated service to LPU volleyball. He played a huge role in developing players like Joan Doguna and Venice Puzon, who went on to reach the PVL,” said Layco.
“His legacy is firmly established here, and now we support him as he focuses on his expertise in developing the next generation of athletes.”
