MANILA, Philippines—NLEX reaffirmed its trust in coach Jong Uichico even as it dropped its opening assignment in the 2025 PBA Philippine Cup.

The Road Warriors failed to open the all-Filipino conference on a high note as they succumbed to San Miguel Beer, 98-89, at Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Saturday.

Before their weekend opener, NLEX went on a “holistic team building,” spearheaded by team governor Ronald Dulatre, which the team said reinforced its trust in the veteran coach.

SCHEDULE: PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup 2025

“Expectations will be high for us this time. We have full trust in Coach Jong’s system. This is just his first year with the team, and we know that with his experience, we’re heading in the right direction,” said Dulatre in a press release.

“We invested in a holistic team-building program, which not only involved our practices, drills, and bonding inside the court, but also through community outreach, a training camp, and a leadership seminar. It’s the first time we’ve done this, and a big part of it is due to coach Jong Uichico’s guidance.”

Despite the loss to the Beermen, the Road Warriors showed a tough fight against one of the league’s top contenders.

READ: PBA: San Miguel thwarts NLEX comeback for winning start

Michael Miranda led NLEX with 15 points and four rebounds, while Javee Mocon and rookie Xyrus Torres chipped in 11 points apiece. Robert Bolick was limited to 12 points but helped facilitate the offense with eight assists.

Dulatre also talked about the squad’s plan beyond the Philippine Cup and with Uichico at the helm, he believes the squad is headed in the right direction.

“We have three first-round picks in the next two drafts, including Blackwater’s first-round pick in the PBA Season 51 Draft. We also have plans to talk to Kiefer (Ravena) once his contract in Japan ends,” he said.

NLEX aims to bounce back and showcase that trust further when it takes on Rain or Shine next Saturday at the same venue.