University of Santo Tomas Junior Tiger Cubs team captain Andwele Cabanero has officially transferred to Colegio de San Juan de Letran.
The development was confirmed by UST Institute of Physical Education and Athletics director Fr. Rodel Cansancio O.P. and Tiger Cubs head coach Manu Inigo, following initial reports by the university’s official student publication, The Varsitarian, Tiebreaker Times learned on Monday evening.
Cabanero’s lone UAAP campaign with the Tiger Cubs was nothing short of spectacular. The 16-year-old guard earned a spot in the Mythical Team after averaging 16.9 points, 9.4 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, helping UST clinch a silver medal in Season 87.
“When we found out that Andwele won’t be able to continue his studies in UST, we asked Letran if they were interested. Thankful din kami kasi Boss Frank [Lao] and Boss Jacob [Lao] also the coaches of Letran welcomed Andwele there,” Inigo told Tiebreaker Times in an exclusive interview.
With Cabanero unable to continue at UST, Inigo and his staff reached out to Letran and Strong Group Athletics — which supports both the Tiger Cubs and the Squires — to see if they were willing to take in the Cebuano talent.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
The move proved successful, as Cabanero officially enrolled at Letran last Friday, August 22.
Inigo acknowledged that Cabanero’s departure leaves a significant void for UST, particularly as the Tiger Cubs aim to compete at a high level in both the 16-and-under and 19-and-under divisions. Still, the former San Beda head coach remains confident in the program’s depth.
“With the transition of Koji Buenaflor, Carl Manding, and Charles Bucsit to the Growling Tigers, our grassroots program is still intact with the likes of Joaquin Ludovice, Kirk Canete, Charles Esteban, and Jhon Canapi, among others,” Inigo said.
“Of course malaking kawalan si Andwele sa atin this season lalo na malapit na yung opening, pero we’re still ready. We can still compete. We will just try to adjust and help the new players step up every game.”
Cabanero’s standout UAAP stint also earned him a spot on Gilas’ Under-16 squad, contributing to the Nationals’ championship run in the FIBA U16 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers under new head coach LA Tenorio.
Recognizing the rarity of a talent like Cabanero, Cansancio assured that UST will keep the door open for his eventual return — whether in high school with the Tiger Cubs or in college with the Growling Tigers.
“We are keeping the door open for his potential return once he has addressed these issues. For now, we are wishing him success and growth in his new academic endeavors,” Cansancio told Tiebreaker Times.
