The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) and its student-athletes will soon have its own home – a permanent one – after the “Home of the UAAP” was officially unveiled during the groundbreaking inside the 1.8 hectare site along Amang Rodriguez Avenue, Pasig City on Friday, Oct. 24.

No less than Akari Lighting and Technology Corporation CEO Christopher Tiu and other stakeholder led the simple ceremony much to the delight of UAAP officials.

“Three years ago, when we first set foot here, it was a massive parcel of land with very tall grass, which stretched out as far as our eyes could see. Honestly, during that time, we still didn’t have to think of this idea,” said Tiu.

“Little did we realize that one day it would turn into a field of dreams for thousands of student-athletes…,” he added. “Cement and steel will build this structure, but it is the dream and hope of every athlete that will complete this and bring it to life. Together, let us begin building and soon, they will all come.”

The official start of the construction marked the third of its eight-checkpoint timeline of the project which had already completed its presentation and ground zero. It will be followed by concrete topping off, start of fit-out works, building watertightness, and energization before its grand opening.

Aside from the complex, the project – through the creative brilliance of Athletica Asia, ASYA Design, R.S. Caparros Associates & Co., and Redviper Ventures – will have a seating capacity of 8,074 – from the initial plan of 6,792 – apart from additional storage and parking, two practice courts, and jogging oval outside the venue.

The projected completion is in Season 90 in 2027 where the state-of-the-art arena welcomes all indoor events of the league’s 18-sport calendar and will also cater its office and headquarters.

"Today marks a historic milestone for the UAAP as we break ground on the Home of the UAAP,” said Fr. Rodel Casancio, OP, UAAP Season 88 President. “On behalf of all eight member schools. We are deeply grateful to our partner Akari for making this vision a reality.”

According to Akari Project Leader Timothy Tan, the arena will be open to host local and international programs or events aside from sports.

“Beyond collegiate sports, we are open hosting other events, such as concerts, entertainment shows, school graduation, and even corporate…,” said “Our goal for a complex is to build a true multi-purpose cell.”

"And even more international events that we can house in the UAAP Arena... the facility will be designed, to cater to international standards," added Athletica Asia head of leasing and marketing Sharina Vinas-Tiu.

The project leaders are open as well for suggestions and ideas with the final name of the stadium.

In terms of exterior design, it still the same with an infinity-shaped to symbolize the eight UAAP participating schools and its core values, while its LED light shone based on who was the winning team. Though, it plans that it can feature several well curated commercial spaces.