By: Miguel Caramoan
San Sebastian College-Recoletos responded to the allegations raised by Golden Stags head coach Rob Labagala, who claimed that he, his staff, and his players have not been paid their salaries and allowances for four months following their 82-81 win over Letran on Wednesday.
After the game, Labagala said, “Just to give you an idea, wala kaming salary for four months and allowances, but we continue to fight.”
San Sebastian president Fr. Rafael B. Pecson, OAR, however, denied the claim, stating that there have been no delays in payments.
“We are aware of the recent interview aired on GMA in which our head coach mentioned that the basketball coaches had not received their salaries for several months,” he said in a statement.
“Out of respect for the truth, I wish to clarify that all our coaches and staff have been receiving their monthly salaries faithfully and on time.”
Fr. Pecson added that Labagala may have been overcome by emotion when he made the statement to the press.
“As a Catholic educational institution, we are guided by truth spoken with charity and charity lived in truth,” he said.
“We understand that emotions can sometimes lead to statements made in haste or frustration, but these moments call us not to anger, but to understanding and dialogue.”
Golden Stags player Jhuniel Dela Rama, however, shared that the players have also not received their allowances.
The former Squire added that Labagala would often spend his own money to provide for the team’s meals.
“Yun nga hiram-hiram nalang kami ganyan, si coach Rob nagbibigay pa rin samin yan nang pastustos, pero naiintindihan namin kung di siya makapagbigay kasi may pamilya pa rin yan. Ginagawa lang namin, nagluluto nalang kami,” he said.
Fr. Pecson ended his statement by emphasizing that the school remains open to dialogue.
“We hold our coaches, athletes, and staff in high regard. Together, we share one mission: to form minds and hearts stewards of creation who are builders of communion. Let this moment remind us to guard our words with care and in the spirit of Christian brotherhood,” the statement read.
“May the Lord, who is Truth and Love Himself, strengthen the bonds of respect and trust that unite our community.”
