MANILA, Philippines — Yeng Guiao, whose coaching contract with PBA team Air21 was not renewed when it ended last December 31, has been signed to handle Rain or Shine in the coming conference.

Guiao and Rain or Shine officials announced the partnership on Tuesday saying the contract will be for two years.

Guiao, a veteran coach and former Philippine team mentor, said he hopes to finally give the franchise co-owned by the family of Raymund Yu and Terry Que its first championship saying the team has enough depth and talent to go all the way to the finals.

“I think, the management and coaching staff have done good job building the foundation of the team,” Guiao said. “It’s like a house that just needs a few touches and polishing. I hope I can give them that final push to win a title.” The agreement was officially announced by team manager and Board Representative Atty. Mert Mondragon, who said that Guiao will be a big boost to winning their first PBA title.

“With the able leadership of Coach Caloy Garcia, who took on the job as head coach, Rain or Shine was able to acquire and use players that greatly improved the team’s competitiveness,” said Mondragon. “But we feel that Rain or Shine has waited long enough and is now ready to take the next step.”

“Upon the recommendation of coach Caloy himself, the team owners embarked on a quest to find a new head coach. And we know that coach Yeng embodies the competitive spirit that, at the outset, drove us to join PBA,” Mondragon added.

The signing of Guiao with Rain or Shine ended speculation on where the former national team coach, who is also the vice governor of Pampanga, will end up after his contract with Air21 expired last December 31.

Manila Bulletin