In an official document posted by UST’s official student publication, The Varsitarian, Governor Francis Escudero certified that Ayo and the Growling Tigers did not commit prohibited basketball activities. 

“The actions performed by former coach Aldin Ayo is in accordance with the health protocols and guidelines as per existing IATF-EID and that there was no UST-sanctioned team basketball training conducted in the domicile of Mr. Ayo or was there any prohibited basketball activities conducted by his guests outside of his residence within the jurisdiction of the Province of Sorsogon,” wrote Escudero on the certification that was dated September 28.

“Mr. Aldin Ayo is not liable for violation of any health protocol pursuant EID-IATF guidelines and local executive orders in the Province of Sorsogon,” Escudero added. 

According to The Varsitarian, Sorsogon City police also found Ayo not liable for any violation of health protocols imposed by the Inter-Agency Task Force, and the individuals in the group including the players had secured the proper documents required before traveling to Sorsogon. 

The incident report of Sorsogon PNP also noted that the city government issued a certificate of acceptance for the players on June 26 and July 22, and that their activities in the bubble were focused on “agricultural activities,” as opposed to basketball training.

The team went through a 14-day home quarantine before proceeding with “personal development farm training”, which was certified by the barangay captain of Capuy. 

The report stated that the players engaged in rice and tree planting, and Brgy. Capuy allowed them to make use of a basketball court and a weights room inside Ayo’s house.

The fallout of the Sorsogon Bubble, however, was severe with Ayo resigning from his post, several key players leaving the Tiger’s lair, and Rev. Fr. Jannel Abogado, O.P. stepping down as the director of the Institute of Physical Education and Athletics.

It is remembered that Ayo was sanctioned with an indefinite ban by the UAAP last September 9, citing “endangering the health and well-being of the student-athletes” as the reason for the decision.