The Philippines’ most-popular collegiate tournament is now on the Kapatid network.
On October 23, 2020, TV5 and Cignal jointly announced their partnership with the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP). What we know so far is that the deal is expected to last through 2025 or season 88.
https://twitter.com/OneSportsPHL/status/1319584578600726528?s=19
Alongside that, as of press time, the league’s matches are expected to air live via One Sports on free TV channel 41. With regards to Cignal, no details yet whether UAAP games will be carried by One Sports+ – exclusively available on Cignal TV channel 91 – or would it also have its own channel ala-PBA and NBA. However, it is implied that the UAAP will be available online through One Sports’ digital channels on Facebook and YouTube.
The transfer of the UAAP to TV5/Cignal is the culmination of months-long speculation on the fate of its TV broadcast. Prior to this deal, UAAP games on TV were previously handled by ABS-CBN Sports since 2000. Before the controversial ABS-CBN shutdown last May, the association’s contract with the broadcaster was already due to end that month. However, as things turned out for the worst, UAAP has since entertained offers from rival stations.
UAAP and TV5/Cignal are yet to disclose further details including the broadcast schedule.