The National Collegiate Athletic Association of the Philippines is gearing up for a major comeback at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum, marking a historic return to its roots after the Philippine Sports Commission cleared all remaining roadblocks for its homecoming.
Opened in 1934 — just a decade after the NCAA’s founding — the Rizal Memorial Coliseum quickly became the league’s premier venue, especially for basketball games.
“Dito talaga ang identity ng NCAA, which was synonymous with the Rizal Memorial Coliseum back in the day,” said Atty. Jonas Cabochan, NCAA Management Committee representative from San Beda University and acting ManCom Chairman.
For decades, the RMC served as the backdrop for many unforgettable NCAA games until the league shifted to other venues beginning in 2005.
“We welcome back the NCAA with open arms. This is their home,” said PSC Chairman Pato Gregorio.
The NCAA’s return to the RMC is expected to be well-received, especially given the venue’s accessibility for most member schools.
“It will definitely help in attracting audiences for every game, a vibrant identity the NCAA has been carrying since then,” Gregorio added.
Looking ahead to Season 101, the NCAA is considering the inclusion of gymnastics, boxing, and weightlifting as demonstration sports.
While these events won’t be part of the official medal tally, they have historically been strong contributors to the Philippines’ medal haul in the Olympics.
The league’s return to the RMC is also logistically ideal. Most NCAA member schools are located within Manila and southern Metro Manila, including San Sebastian College-Recoletos, San Beda University, College of Saint Benilde, Arellano University, Emilio Aguinaldo College, and the Intramuros-based institutions: Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Mapúa University, and Lyceum of the Philippines University.
Other member schools — such as Jose Rizal University in Mandaluyong and the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA in Las Piñas — will also benefit from the venue’s central location.
The NCAA plans to hold a soft launch at RMC this September, followed by a grand opening in October.
The league is optimistic about holding the majority of its games at the historic site, which last hosted NCAA action in 2005.
PSC Chairman Gregorio recently met with NCAA Management Committee representatives to finalize preparations for the upcoming season.
Attendees included Peter Cayco (AU), Atty. Jonas Cabochan (SBU), Fr. Victor Calvo Jr. (CSJL), Dax Castellano (CSB), Frank Gusi (UPHSD), and Dr. Lorenzo Lorenzo (EAC).
