He has ended his stint in the collegiate tournament.
In a post on his Instagram account, University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons’ Harold Alarcon penned his message of gratitude to everyone who had become part of his journey as a player of the Men’s Basketball Team.
“Purong Pasasalamat,” he titled the open letter attached to the post where he also shared his photos during the season.
“It is a privilege to wear and represent the Maroon jersey for five seasons. I learned a lot in those five years, each year bringing its own lessons,” the 23-year-old told.
He also said that in his best and lowest points throughout that time, “but nonetheless, it made me better.“
“I lived through moments of victories and moments of adversity, grateful to have experienced both of them in my journey in UP,” he added.
Harold then said: “I thank God everyday for giving me the strength and wisdom to face whatever challenges may come.”
Furthermore, he said that he is grateful for all the coaching staff, whom he spent most of his years with. “[They] taught me and guided me to make the right choices on and off the court. Helped shape me, not just as a player, but as a man.”
“Thank you for your belief, patience, and unending support. This journey wouldn’t have been possible without all of you.”
Alarcon also included in his message of thanks a shoutout to the sponsors and the UP community, whom he regarded as the “unsung heroes” and the “best crowds” in the UAAP.
“Thank you for the pride and the spirit you showed every game. Forever grateful for the love and support you’ve shown us since day one. Thank you for believing and staying faithful through wins and losses.“
He furthered, “We see you, we feel you, and we love all of you. Lalo na kaming lima, we will truly miss you,” with them five being Gerry Abadiano, Reyland Torres, Janjan Felicilda, and Terrence Fortea.
To those four players, who are also leaving after this season, he said: “[W]alang mahirap na problema kapag kayo ang kasama. Salamat sa buhay niyo, salamat sa pinagsamahan nating nabuo. Sa wakas hiwahiwalay na tayo minsan nakakasawa na din kayo e (joke lang hehe). Kidding aside wish you all the best. No goodbyes, just see you around.”
Lastly, Harold reflected on his plans beyond the UAAP: “I don’t know what the future holds. But I know who holds my future.”
Harold is part of the team’s history-making feat, as he has been part of the Fighting Maroons from its return to the finals in Season 84 and win its first trophy in 36 years all the way through their runner-up finish in Season 88. In between those, the team also had another championship in Season 87.