Chito Victolero will be Magnolia’s long-term head coach, says Alvin Patrimonio

Magnolia team manager Alvin Patrimonio stands firm in his belief that coach Chito Victolero remains the ideal head coach for Magnolia.

Patrimonio disclosed that there will be no changes in the Hotshots’ roster for the upcoming Philippine Cup, including the coaching staff.

“He will be a long-term head coach for the team,” stressed Patrimonio. “So far, okay naman ang results ng performance niya as the head coach.”

“Together with the assistant coaches, talagang tulung-tulong sila. They love the team, the players. Buong puso ‘yan for Magnolia,” he added.

Despite some fans expressing discontent over Victolero’s performance in Magnolia’s recent defeat to San Miguel in the PBA Season 48 Commissioner’s Cup Finals, Patrimonio asserted on Thursday that Victolero has his full support for the long term.

Since taking over the reins of the Purefoods franchise in 2016, Victolero guided Magnolia all the way to the title in the 2018 Governors Cup and led them to two finals appearances thereafter, most recently against the Beermen.

Despite not having as formidable a roster as San Miguel, the Hotshots pushed their opponents to their limits in a hard-fought championship series. Winning consecutive games to level the best-of-seven series at 2-2 showcased their resilience.

To Patrimonio, these achievements are enough justification for Victolero to remain in his post.

“It’s part of the game talaga na may mananalo at may matatalo,” said Patrimonio. “We accepted that as men and talagang babawi na lang next conference. Yung mga mistakes, the attitudes, nandun naman yan eh. Mag-iimprove pa yan, may ibibigay pa yan.”