Transferee Matthew Aquino was declared ineligible by the UAAP board Saturday evening.
According to a source closely monitoring the situation, the board decided to uphold its stance with regards to Aquino’s ineligibility with a vote of 4-1 with one school abstaining.
After Adamson University’s falling out with former head coach Kenneth Duremdes a year ago, big man Matthew Aquino bolted out of San Mercelino to join the National University Bulldogs.
Upon enrollment, the 6’9 stretch big man was sent to the United States, in Florida to be exact, for a three-month strength and conditioning training together with JP Cauilan. This was questioned by the UAAP board according to a reliable source.
In an emergency board meeting last September 5, the eligibility of Aquino was questioned by the board members led by the representatives of Adamson University.
According to a CHED ruling, a student should not be absent for more than 12 percent of a school year unless it was allowed by the school or if the student is participating in a school-sanctioned activity.
To avoid any complications, the 19 year old did not suit-up for National University’s opening assignment against the UE Red Warriors. After the game, he remained mum about his situation.
“Hindi ako puwede magsalita ngayon. Coaches na lang puwede sumagot,” Aquino said.
National University is looking to appeal this decision but the young big man will most likely not suit-up in the Bulldogs’ tilt against the Ateneo Blue Eagles Sunday afternoon.
If NU’s appeal does not push through, Aquino will again sit out another year.
