FOR St. Benilde head coach Charles Tiu, coaching is about more than winning games - it’s about seeing his players reach milestones that go beyond the NCAA hardwood.
And when Allen Liwag earned a spot in the Gilas 2025 SEA Games lineup, pride was immediate.
“I’m proud of Allen na pinaghirapan niya yun. I don’t think anybody expected this coming from him out of nowhere until naging MVP siya,” Tiu said.
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The timing, however, isn’t ideal. Benilde is still in the NCAA Season 101 semifinals, and the SEA Games schedule overlaps.
If the Blazers lose in do-or-die Game 3, Liwag can join Gilas early.
But if Benilde advances to the finals - which Tiu hopes for - the star forward’s arrival will be slightly delayed, allowing the school to chase a championship with Liwag still honoring his national team duties.
“If there’s a chance to play for the country, how can you say no to that? I know we represent our school and everything, but that’s one of the greatest honors you can have,” the mentors said.
"We just said yes, and thankfully they were able to coordinate. But it's not an ideal situation for us and for the, even for the national team, but at this point, I think, and I agree naman with the choice of the committee, na Allen is probably one of the best bigs available.”
Even amid the hectic schedule, Tiu sees the bigger picture.
“It says a lot about him - his hard work, his perseverance. Being considered for the national team is a huge honor, and I’m proud to see him get it.”
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