In a TV-aired interview, San Sebastian College-Recoletos head coach Rob Labagala revealed that he and the coaches have not received their salaries for four months.
The San Sebastian College-Recoletos Manila immediately clarified the situation regarding the coaching staff of their men’s basketball team after a TV-aired interview from head coach Rob Labagala revealed alleged unpaid salaries on Wednesday.
Labagala had just led the Golden Stags to a resounding win over heavy favorites Letran Knights in a thriller, 82-81, at the San Juan Arena.
After the match, he was interviewed on air where he spoke about the team’s recent struggles — including a losing streak in the tournament, but more importantly, the alleged issues of unpaid salaries that have been going on for four months.
In a statement released shortly after, San Sebastian clarified that from the school’s end, the salaries have been paid off.
“Out of respect for the truth, I wish to clarify that all our coaches and staff have been receiving their monthly salaries faithfully and on time.” said the statement, which was signed by College President Fr. Rafael B. Pecson.
“As a Catholic educational institution, we are guided by truth spoke with charity and charity lived in truth. We understand that emotions can sometimes lead to statements made in haste or frustration, but such moments call us not to anger, but to understanding and dialogue.” they added.
‘A sigh of relief’
Despite all the controversy, Labagala did say that the victory pulled a weight off of their shoulders.
After going through a tough stretch in the tournament, the team was able to gut it out despite everything — especially on the coaches’ end.
“What’s on my mind right now na sigh of relief na we can prove dun sa lahat na we can compete here in the NCAA and I truly believe kasi dun sa mga bata kasi, and aside from a sigh of relief para sakin is, 'yung struggle din namin kasi.” he said.
“So 'yung win na to, ang sarap sa pakiramdam kasi dami naming pinagdaanan eh, dami naming pinagdaanan before we got this win, before we go to our games, and as what I’ve said,”
With the school aiming for dialogue, Labagala and the rest of his staff will likely be able to iron out any issues — whether it be involving the school or any other parties that are currently supporting the Golden Stags.
“Sasabihin ko nalang din na we are four months na walang salary and walang allowance, but we played here na lumalaban kami and 'yan ang hindi alam ng lahat.” said Labagala.
“So, having that win right here is a sigh of relief para sa'min na all of those struggles that we go through ay andito pa rin kami.”
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Luisa Morales is a sports writer with a special interest in promoting women’s sports.
Her coverage highlights include the UAAP, PVL, Southeast Asian Games, and the FIBA World Cup. She also follows Alex Eala, the Philippine women’s national football team, and mixed martial arts.