FEU keen on keeping Pingoy out of UAAP?

MANILA, Philippines - Far Eastern U yesterday appeared keen on honoring the two-year eligibility rule on prized rookie Jerie Pingoy’s transfer to the multi-titled Ateneo Blue Eagles in the UAAP men’s cage wars.

“No,” an FEU official told The STAR yesterday when asked if the school would grant Pingoy’s request for release papers that would exempt him from the new eligibility rule for rookie transferees.

The same official suggested that Pingoy move out of Ateneo and instead go to the NCAA and seek a spot at San Beda to be able to play this coming season.

“He (Pingoy) may transfer to San Beda so that he can play this June in the NCAA. No need to sit out  two years of residency if he plays in the NCAA. Ateneo and the UAAP board are aware of this solution,” said the official.

San Beda board representative Jose Mari Lacson, however, said he isn’t aware that the Lions, who are currently training in the US, are interested in Pingoy, who played high school ball for the Baby Tams.

“I have no knowledge about it, but will have to ask the school first. Besides, the team is out of the country,” Lacson told The STAR.

Another option for Pingoy is to play for the national youth team or Smart Gilas Pilipinas 2.0’s cadet squad composed of college players like Kevin Alas, Jake Pascual, Garvo Lanete and RR Garcia.  

“He can play with the national team if he wants,” said the same source.

Or Pingoy can just go back to FEU and play for the Tams.