BENSON Bocboc is returning to the University of the Philippines women’s volleyball program, taking over as head coach as the Fighting Maroons prepare for a new chapter in the UAAP.
Bocboc previously guided UP in Season 87, leading the team to a 6-8 record and a share of fifth place before Italian coach Fabio Menta took charge the following season.
With Menta now retired, UP has turned to Bocboc to oversee the team’s rebuilding phase.
The coaching change comes as the Fighting Maroons move on from several key players. Irah Jaboneta and Joan Monares have moved to the professional ranks in the PVL, while Nina Ytang is now part of Alas Pilipinas. Casiey Dongallo, meanwhile, continues to recover from an ACL injury.
UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development director Bo Perasol expressed confidence in Bocboc’s return, citing his previous stint with the team as a reason for bringing him back.
“Coach Boc proved himself to be a capable coach when he set us up for success in Season 87. Tiwala tayong magagawa niya ulit ang ganoon now we’re entering a new era,” Perasol said.
Despite the significant changes to the roster, Bocboc will have the continued support of sponsor Frank Lao and Strong Group Athletics as UP prepares for UAAP Season 89.
The Fighting Maroons are expected to lean on returning players Kianne Olango, Jelai Gajero, Bienne Bansil, Jaz Manguilomotan and Julia De Leon as Bocboc begins rebuilding the squad.
Bocboc is keeping expectations measured as he takes on the challenge.
“No expectations, no pressure muna ulit tayo. Basta dito naman sa UP, ang panigurado, lalaban,” he said.
The returning coach is already preparing the team for the 2026 Shakey’s Super League Pre-season Unity Cup, which will serve as part of UP’s buildup for the UAAP season.
Bocboc will also continue his work in the PVL as an assistant coach of Farm Fresh. He previously served on La Salle’s coaching staff from 2016 to 2024 and was also part of the F2 Logistics coaching staff during that period. (Adrian Co)
