Yeng Guiao moves to NLEX, Caloy Garcia to coach Rain or Shine

MANILA, Philippines – Yeng Guiao is leaving the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters to coach the NLEX Road Warriors starting next PBA season, Rain or Shine team owner Raymond Yu confirmed to Rappler Wednesday, October 5, fresh from finalizing the deal. 

“We just talked like an hour or an hour and a half ago,” Yu said in a phone call. “The deal with the MVP Group, which is for him to coach NLEX, was finalized.” 

Yu said Guiao’s former first assistant coach Caloy Garcia will take over as head coach for the Painters, who won its first championship in 4 years in this season’s Commissioner’s Cup. 

The outspoken and fiery coach will be taking over from Boyet Fernandez, who reportedly will be given the option to stay on as an assistant. 

The Philippine Daily Inquirer was first to report about Guiao’s transfer.  

Yu said Guiao was upfront and “a true gentleman” when it came to the negotiations with the Manny V. Pangilinan-owned franchise and kept Rain or Shine in the loop. 

“Mabait siya talagang tao e (He’s really a good person). He wanted to be fair to Rain or Shine,” Yu said. “Medyo sad kami (We’re a bit sad) he’s leaving but he’s going to a good situation and we’re happy for him.

The 57-year-old veteran coach will not only be coaching, according to Yu, “but he will be in a situation where we can help other people, I think that’s part of the CSR (corporate social responsibility) function.” 

Since taking over for Rain or Shine in 2011, Guiao has led the team to two championships and built them up as a model of consistency throughout the years. 

Rain or Shine has had 12 consecutive playoff appearances since its 2012 title. They’ve also had 9 straight semifinals and 6 Finals stints. The Painters’ playoffs streak was snapped only this 2016 Governors’ Cup when they finished outside of the last 8.

“Rain or Shine is very thankful to coach Yeng for giving the franchise two championships in 6 Finals appearances. We wish him all the best. He will always be part of the Rain or Shine family,” Yu said.

Meanwhile, NLEX made it to the quarterfinals this conference but bowed out in one game to San Miguel Beer. – Rappler.com