The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) broke ground on its first permanent home on October 24, 2025, at Amang Rodriguez Avenue in Pasig City. The arena, called the Home of the UAAP, is a partnership with longtime league partner Akari Lighting and Technology Corporation.
Building a Lasting Home for Athletes
For decades, the UAAP operated without a centralized base, holding events and offices across member schools. The new arena, set on a 1.8-hectare site, will serve as the main venue for the league’s 18-sport calendar and will also house its offices and headquarters.
UAAP Season 88 president Fr. Rodel Casancio, OP, called the groundbreaking a defining moment for the league. “Today marks a historic milestone for the UAAP as we break ground on the Home of the UAAP,” he said. “On behalf of all eight member schools, we are deeply grateful to our partner Akari for making this vision a reality.”
Design and Facilities
The arena’s capacity has grown since the project was first announced in August 2024, when it was planned as a 6,000-seat venue. It is now set to seat more than 8,000. The complex will host UAAP basketball, volleyball, and other indoor sports, and will also be made available to other leagues, including the PBA, PVL, and NCAA, when there are no scheduling conflicts.
The building’s design, led by ASYA Design Partner under principal architect Albert Yu, features an infinity-shaped structure meant to represent the league’s eight member schools. The arena will also include commercial and leisure spaces, positioning it as both a sports venue and a community destination.
Akari’s Role and Vision
Akari, the league’s longtime corporate partner, will own and develop the arena. Akari CEO Christopher Tiu, a former UAAP basketball standout, said the project reflects the company’s broader commitment to the sport. “At Akari, we believe in building legacies that go beyond lighting solutions,” Tiu said. “This Home of the UAAP project is our way of supporting grassroots sports development, where young student-athletes can grow, excel, and shine on the national stage.”
A New Chapter for Philippine Athletics
Construction is expected to be completed in 2027, in time for UAAP Season 90. Until then, the league will continue holding its games at existing venues such as Smart Araneta Coliseum and the Mall of Asia Arena.
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