By Roselle Mitch G. Anas
Central Philippine University (CPU) Men’s Football Team poses for a photo celebrating their victory as champions of the 27th UNIGAMES 2026 held in Aklan from October 23 to 30, marking a triumphant comeback following a heartbreaking loss in the previous season.
The Central Philippine University (CPU) Men’s Football Team emerged as champions of the 27th Philippine University Games (UNIGAMES) 2026 held in Aklan from October 23 to 30, marking a triumphant comeback following a heartbreaking loss in the previous season.
Despite facing challenges during training and throughout the competition, the team maintained its determination to secure the championship title. In an interview, team captain Reije Mikhael M. Rafols shared that approximately half of the team’s members were rookies who had to adjust to the demands of the competition.
“Half sa team namon subong mga rookies, so na budlayan pa sila mag adjust but eventually na pakita man nila ang ila potential throughout sa tournament. Damo man mga casualties nga natabo samon pero wala gid kami nag untat para e takudon ang champion,” Rafols shared.
As a student-athlete, Rafols emphasized the personal significance of the championship, as he had only returned to football the previous year and was eager to quench his thirst for victory by winning tournaments once again.
He also credited the rookies for playing a vital role in their championship journey, recognizing their willingness to step up and prove themselves throughout the tournament.
“For me ang biggest factor nga nag contribute sa team is ang tanan nga rookies, because grabe gid ila pag step up kag gin pakita gid nila sa amon nga mga captains kag coaches nga deserve nila ang spot nga gin hatag saila,” he emphasized.
Beyond the championship, Rafols encouraged aspiring football players to remain committed to their dreams, emphasizing that the sport is more than just winning games and scoring goals.
“Football is not just about winning games or scoring goals, it’s about discipline, hard work, and teamwork. But remember that every training session and every sacrifice brings you one step closer to your goals. Stay humble and always put God first,” he shared.
The team first dedicated its victory to God, acknowledging His guidance in helping them overcome the challenges they encountered throughout the competition. They also offered the championship in memory of Sir Edwin Caro Laru-an and teammate Christopher “Buknoy” Endencio, whose support and contributions remained meaningful to the team.
A victory dedicated to God and in loving memory of Sir Edwin Caro Laru-an and teammate Christopher “Buknoy” Endencio, whose legacy continues to inspire the CPU Men’s Football Team,
Lastly, the team expressed their gratitude to their coaches for their constant guidance, discipline, and continued encouragement throughout their journey.
“Sa coaches namon, kay Coach Lee, Coach Bob, kag Coach GP, kung wala sila nag tudlo, nag akig, kag puga sa iamon wala gid namon na lab ot ni tanan, tunggod saila mayara kami disciplina sa sarili kag as a team,” Rafols concluded.
The official team roster consisted of Stanley Luiz Santino L. Agido, Jan Michael Y. Alba, Rolf John B. Alminaza, Vince Russel D. Aviador, Lhance Karlson E. Balle, Leo Paul Z. Banquillo, Dwayne Hector L. Barrientos, Marc Orlex B. Batisla-ong, Ken Lewis F. Biclar, Ariel Allan G. Biñas Jr., Zymone Kyle G. Biñas, Lloyd L. Catamasa-an, Rey Gabriel G. De Lacy, Neo Gean R. Dela Peña, Kent Laurenz C. De la Peña, Ern Patrick J. Estandarte, Matthew James V. Gabileo, Brent Richard P. Gaje, Mark Daniell Gedaya, Vincent C. Gener Jr., Gabriel Owen G. Grio, Jairon D. Guzman, John Emmanuel D. Guzman, Johann Mitchel B. Javellana, Jil Sander D. Pillora, Chili A. Magallon, James T. Salvacion, Kylle Gabriel C. Sison, Christian R. Talamor, and James Carl G. Tuazon, led by team captain Reije Mikhael M. Rafols.
The team sealed the championship with a 2-0 victory over Holy Cross of Davao College in the finals, guided by their coaches, Head Coach Bob Rommel J. Javellana and Asst. Coach Gisson Paul B. Seloterio.
This achievement highlights the diverse talents and excellence of Centralians that extend beyond academics, research, and arts—making Central Philippine University truly the “Home of the Champions.”