Charles Lobitana: Leading UP’s Powerhouse Program

For Charles Lobitana, wearing the University of the Philippines badge is more than just a role. It’s the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. 

“Growing up in Bukidnon, dream ko talaga to play for UP. Kaya ngayon, it’s truly an honor to represent the No. 1 university in the Philippines,” said Lobitana, captain of UP’s football team.

Forging Bonds, Leading by Example

With UP’s roster blending rookies and veterans, Lobitana takes pride in shaping team chemistry. “Plano ko talaga na mas ma-build yung chemistry namin, lalo na ngayon na madami kaming freshies,” he said. “Mas nakikilala namin sila through bonding, on and off the field, at syempre by leading through example.”

The buildup to the season showed promise, with UP collecting wins and gaining confidence. But Lobitana remains grounded. 

“Yes, nananalo kami pero madami pa rin kaming dapat i-improve para mas handa kami this Season 88,” he admitted.

While many are eager to know which fresh faces or rising stars will shine for UP, Lobitana prefers to highlight the team’s bond. 

“Para sa fans na yan to watch out for. Just wait and see this season,” he teased. More importantly, he emphasized the squad’s unity.

“Mas naging close kami with the sophomores and freshies, at mas nagtitiwala na rin kami sa abilities ng isa’t isa. Yun yung nagbibigay sa amin ng mas magandang chemistry at confidence as a team.”

The Road to Redemption

The mission this year is clear: reclaim the UAAP crown. “Wala namang particular na opponent, pero excited kami to take back the crown,” the captain declared.

The Fighting Maroons fell short in Season 87, bowing out in the semifinals. For Lobitana, that experience sharpened the team’s mentality heading into Season 88. 

“Biggest adjustment is yung tamang mindset bago pumasok sa training. Dapat may purpose ka, kung to improve yourself or makatulong ka pa sa teammates at sa team. Natalo kami sa semis, and ayaw na namin maulit yung ganoong feeling,” he explained.

Gratitude to the UP Community

Heading into a new campaign, Lobitana knows the Fighting Maroons draw strength not just from within, but also from the passionate UP community. “We are very grateful sa UP Community. I hope and pray na patuloy niyo kaming susupportahan this Season 88. Maraming Salamat, Laban UP!”

For Lobitana and the Fighting Maroons, Season 88 is not just another campaign but a chance to turn lessons into victories and dreams into reality. Fueled by the support of the UP community and the bond they’ve built as a team, they march forward with one goal in mind: to bring the UAAP crown back to Diliman.

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