The University of the Philippines Men’s Basketball Team (UPMBT) welcomed a new member to its list of institutional supporters as Unioil Petroleum Philippines Inc. (UPPI) became the newest sponsor of the UP Fighting Maroons for UAAP Season 89.
Unioil, an industry leader and forward-thinking fuel company, is partnering with UP at a key turning point in its history. The Fighting Maroons are moving forward from its “Maroon 5” era to a new campaign built on the gains of recent successes and the promise of a fresh, strong team out to pursue the Maroons’ winning tradition as it competes for another men’s basketball crown.
“We see resilience when we look at the UP Fighting Maroons — a team that has fought its way back, endured challenges, and risen to become one of the most respected programs today. In many ways, their story mirrors our own at Unioil,” said UPPI chief executive officer Janice Co Roxas-Chua on why Unioil is backing the UP Fighting Maroons.
“We may not be the biggest player in the industry, but we have worked relentlessly to be recognized. We have pushed ourselves to innovate, to deliver excellence, and to earn the trust of our customers every single day. Like UPMBT, we continue to climb alongside the very best. That shared journey of resilience is what binds us together. To the players, you carry the pride of UP, and now you carry our full support as well.”
Unioil will provide free fuel for the UP varsity team buses as well.
“At Unioil, we don’t just fuel vehicles. We fuel journeys. As part of our commitment to that journey, we’d like to support the UP Fighting Maroons in a very practical way — by providing free fuel for the team buses for one full year. Because behind every game, every training, every away match, there is a journey and we want to make sure that that journey is one less thing to worry about. Champions are not built overnight, they are fueled every single day. And today, we are proud to fuel the Fighting Maroons. UP Fight!” Ms. Roxas-Chua said.
The UP Office for Athletic and Sports Development (OASD) expressed gratitude for the partnership, noting that the continued support and trust of industry leaders like Unioil is a testament to how far the UPMBT program has come, and how such support plays a crucial role in sustaining its continued growth and success.
“We are very happy and proud to welcome Unioil to the UPMBT and to the UP Community. Partnerships like this align with our Office’s vision and mission of strengthening UP’s athletic programs and providing our student-athletes with the resources and support they need to perform at their best. Unioil’s trust and commitment shows their belief in our basketball program – a program that has proven itself to be competitive, values-driven, and sustainable for seasons to come,” said UP OASD Director Bo Perasol.
NowheretogobutUP Foundation welcomed Unioil as a significant new partner whose commitment directly uplifts the student-athletes and the broader UP community.
Foundation secretary general Atty. Peegee Galang thanked Unioil for standing with the UPMBT, saying the signing is “not just a signing of a partnership, but a coming-together of shared values, aspirations, and the belief in the power of sports to uplift, unite, and inspire.”
“At a time when the world continues to navigate uncertainties, your commitment today goes beyond business. It reflects resilience, responsibility, and a forward-looking vision that sends a powerful message that investing in the youth and Philippine sports remain a priority,” Atty. Galang added.
As the UP Men’s Basketball Team gears up for UAAP Season 89, the addition of Unioil to the roster of team backers will strengthen its support system and inspire the UP Fighting Maroons to compete with heart, dedication and pride.
