A historic milestone for Philippine collegiate sports has officially begun — the rise of an 8,000-seat arena that will soon stand as an enduring symbol of unity, excellence, and passion for Filipino student-athletes. More than just a venue, this state-of-the-art sports complex will serve as a beacon where communities come together to uplift, illuminate, and celebrate the true spirit of sportsmanship.
Akari Lighting & Technology Corporation, through its deep commitment to innovation and nation-building, is honored to be part of this monumental vision — helping lay the very foundations of what will become The Home of the UAAP.
Engr. Timothy Tan, Project Lead of Athletica Asia Land Corporation, revealed exciting updates on the design and scale of the upcoming UAAP arena — sharing that the project has already seen significant enhancements even before breaking ground.
“We’ve successfully increased the seating capacity in the upper-ground or general admission area, raising it from nearly 7,000 to more than 8,000 seats,” Tan disclosed — signaling a venue that will be among the largest dedicated collegiate sports arenas in the Philippines.
Tan also confirmed that the project team is actively studying proposals to introduce standing room areas, with a firm commitment to balancing fan experience with safety and accessibility.
“Safety remains a top priority. Should standing zones be added, there will be protective barriers in place, along with clear emergency discharge routes to ensure everyone’s well-being,” he explained.
In his groundbreaking speech, Engr. Tan expressed heartfelt gratitude to the UAAP for entrusting Athletica Asia Land Corporation with such a meaningful and historic endeavor:
“Today, as we break ground, we’re not just laying the foundation of a structure — we’re building a legacy. This will be a space that inspires future generations and unites people through the power of sports.”
For Akari Chief Executive Officer Christopher Tiu — former PBA champion, national team athlete, and lifelong advocate for Philippine sports development — The Home of the UAAP represents far more than a landmark building. It is the physical embodiment of Akari’s long-standing mission to empower communities and invest in grassroots sports development across the Philippines.
“In just a few years’ time, this arena will serve as a breeding ground — an incubation center — for young athletes who will make their schools and country proud,” said Tiu. “It will be a place where their skills are honed, their dreams are nurtured, and their potential shines brightest.”
Akari’s involvement in the Home of the UAAP project reflects the brand’s belief that innovation and nation-building go hand in hand — that the same commitment to quality, reliability, and excellence that goes into every Akari product must also be applied to building the spaces where the next generation of Filipino champions will rise.
UAAP Season 88 Chairman Fr. Richard Ang, O.P. echoed the same powerful sentiment at the groundbreaking ceremony — describing the occasion as a pivotal, generation-defining moment for the league, its student-athletes, and the entire Filipino nation.
“With the UAAP Home, we take the next bold step forward. Beyond being a sports venue, it will be a true home — a space of belonging, growth, and shared legacy. A place where champions will be nurtured,” Fr. Ang declared.
The Home of the UAAP is envisioned to serve not only as a premier venue for UAAP basketball, volleyball, and other collegiate sports — but as a living institution dedicated to developing the total Filipino student-athlete: physically, mentally, and spiritually.
As the foundations are laid and this extraordinary vision takes shape, The Home of the UAAP promises to stand not only as a world-class physical structure — but as a lasting symbol of collaboration, perseverance, and Filipino pride.
It is a testament to what becomes possible when innovation, passion, and purpose converge — and when brands like Akari choose to invest not just in products, but in the future of the Filipino people.
Akari is proud to illuminate this historic milestone — just as it has illuminated millions of Filipino homes — with the same unwavering commitment to brightness, quality, and heart.
Stay updated on Akari’s latest projects, partnerships, and innovations by visiting www.akari.com.ph and following their official social media pages.