Embattled UST coach Bong Dela Cruz breaks silence, says conscience is clear

University of Santo Tomas coach Bong Dela Cruz has spoken up about the issues surrounding his tenure with the Growling Tigers, releasing a statement saying his conscience is clear.

The coach is facing an internal inquiry before the university's Institute of Physical Education and Athletics (IPEA), according to a report by The Varsitarian, the school's official newspaper.

In a statement released to reporters on Monday, Dela Cruz decried the reports surrounding the probe as "trial by publicity."

"Alam ko sa aking sarili na malinis ang aking konsensya subali mas pipiliin ko na kung kinakailangan ay sa tamang lugar o sa proper forum ako magsasalita upang maipahayag ko ang aking panig," he said.

"Lubha kong ikinalulungkot ang mga nangyayaring kaganapan dahil bukod sa akin, ang aking pamilya ay lubha nang naaapektuhan sa nangyayari na trial by publicity, dahil alam nila kung paano ko ibinuhos ang aking panahon, oras, at dedikasyon bilang Head Coach ng aming koponan."

Dela Cruz touted his record of reaching the finals this past season, even while most pundits didn't expect the Growling Tigers to make the playoffs.

He said he hopes the issue won't tarnish the reputation of the university. —JST, GMA News