MANILA, Philippines–CJ Cansino said University of Santo Tomas head coach Aldin Ayo cut him from Growling Tigers for “defiance of authority,” but was not given an explanation as to what exact challenge to his mentor’s authority that led to their sour parting of ways.
“I still don’t know what the main reason is,” said Cansino in Filipino during a live interview with The Chasedown. “Up to this point, I’m still waiting for a statement from coach, from UST regarding the reason for my swift removal.”
He said that such an abrupt decision was uncharacteristic of Ayo, considering his relationship with the mentor.
“We’re OK. He’s like my father, which is why I really could not understand why I was cut from that team that quickly,” added Cansino.
Asked about the UST’s alleged training “bubble” in Sorsogon City, Cansino said he would rather let the other camp do the talking.
“I could not confirm since I don’t want it to come from me,” he said. “I don’t want to destroy what UST has built since they have given me so much help. I owe them a lot.”
The Inquirer repeatedly reached out to Cansino on Friday until a representative said later in the evening said that the young superstar-in-the-making would rather move on.
In the same television interview, Cansino echoed the same.
“I just want to start moving on—to start with UP and to have that refresh,” he said. “I want to get on with it because (the Fighting Maroons) is now my new family.”
The Philippine Sports Commission, which is responsible for amateur sports according to the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases’ Joint Administrative Order that details the resumption of sports and physical activities or wellness, sat down with UAAP officials on Saturday.
Chairman Butch Ramirez himself said that he has obtained a copy of the video showing the members of the Growling Tigers in training.
The meeting wrapped up around 4 in the afternoon. Ramirez told the Inquirer that his agency will immediately report on the matter.