Forthsky Padrigao heads to UST after Ateneo exit

Former Ateneo de Manila University basketball player Forthsky Padrigao is heading to the University of Santo Tomas.

UST athletic director Fr. Rodel Cansancio, OP confirmed Padrigao's movement to the España-based squad.

"Siya ang lumapit sa amin and he said he wants to have a second chance after everything that has happened to him. We're a Catholic school and who are we to judge someone who wants reparation?," Cansancio said in a statement.

"Siya mismo ang nag-effort para i-prove na pinagsisisihan niya 'yung mga nagawa niya at gusto niyang ipakita na natuto na siya sa mga pagkakamali na 'yun. Ang UST naman is there to help him reform his ways especially since he's still a kid who needs guidance," the UST athletic director said, adding that Padrigao has sought guidance counseling and volunteered in the school's outreach programs.

(He made an effort to atone for what he did and he wants to show he has learned from his mistake. UST is there to help him reform his ways since he's still a kid who needs guidance.)

With one more chance from UST, Cansancio said the university is ready to help Padrigao in his journey.

"Obviously, he's a talented player, but if he really wants to atone for his past mistakes, UST will be there to help him in this journey," said Cansancio.

Padrigao will be eligible to play for UST in Season 87 and will have two more years for UST.

A member of the UAAP Season 85 Mythical Five, Padrigao left the Katipunan-based squad last July after experiencing 'difficult' months and admitting having mistakes during high school which he apologized for.

Ateneo previously said Padrigao will not be included in the Season 86 lineup due to missing academic requirements.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News