Chito Victolero Returns to Mapua as Head Coach

A source has confirmed that Chito Victolero has been named the new head coach of Mapua, completing a return to the school where he once built his foundation.

The appointment comes after weeks of speculation following the departure of longtime Cardinals mentor and Victolero’s friend Randy Alcantara earlier this year.

Mapua began evaluating candidates shortly after parting ways with Alcantara, whose exit triggered a formal search that included both collegiate and professional coaching names. Multiple reports in January indicated that the school was exploring several options.

Victolero, a Mapua alumnus, previously handled the Cardinals from 2009 to 2012 and helped steer the program back into relevance during his stint. His return signals a full-circle moment for the veteran tactician, who has spent the past decade establishing himself as one of the most competitive coaches in Philippine basketball.

He is best known for his tenure with the Magnolia Hotshots in the PBA, where he led the franchise to a league championship in 2018 and multiple Finals appearances. Victolero built a reputation for defensive discipline, structured half-court offense, and steady player development. His ability to maximize veteran leadership while integrating younger pieces became a trademark of his system.

Victolero stepped away from Magnolia in 2025, with PBA icon LA Tenorio eventually taking over the head coaching role.

Mapua is coming off a disappointing quarterfinals elimination in NCAA Season 101 after winning the men’s basketball title in Season 100.

Jack Santiago was the other finalist for the head coaching position.