(Statement released by Coach Segundo “Bong” Dela Cruz found circulating around the Internet)
February 1, 2016, 8:03p.m. – UST Growling Tigers’ coach Segundo “Bong” dela Cruz insisted his “conscience is clear” amid allegations that certain players had been maltreated under his watch.
Dela Cruz hit what he called “trial by publicity” and said he would speak at the proper forum “if needed,” according to a statement circulating on social media.
The Varsitarian phoned dela Cruz, who confirmed that the statement was indeed his.
“Alam ko sa aking sarili na malinis ang aking konsensya subalit mas pipiliin ko na kung kinakailangan ay sa tamang lugar o proper forum ako magsasalita upang maipahayag ang aking panig,” the statement read.
Dela Cruz, who steered the Tigers to the finals in his second season, maintained there was no truth to allegations that he had verbally and physically abused some of his players.
“Sa paglipas ng mga araw ay nararamdaman ko na lumalala na ang ginagawang paninira hindi sa kakayahan ko bilang coach kundi paninira sa aking pagkatao,” he said.
Dela Cruz said he was hoping UST would not be dragged into the controversy.
Fr. Ermito De Sagon, the school’s athletics director, had confirmed that dela Cruz was being investigated but he did not elaborate.
De Sagon said the coach was not suspended but had been kept out of team practices. Leif Arild F. Sykioco
