MANILA, Philippines — University of Santo Tomas yesterday expressed high hopes for its rebuilding basketball program under new coach Aldin Ayo.

In a statement, the UST Institute of Physical Education and Athletics welcomed the former La Salle mentor into the fold as the Tigers try to rebound from two woeful seasons.

The España-based university said Ayo’s program fits what UST is espousing and lauded the one-time UAAP champion coach for “accommodating the university’s modest salary scheme.”

“The basketball program he espouses is based on discipline that gives primary importance to the academic life of student-athletes, believing that athletes who are hardworking in their studies are likewise those who are able to handle themselves properly both on and off the court,” UST IPEA said.

It didn’t reveal terms of the deal but hinted that Ayo agreed to a pay cut.

“Coach Ayo is a well-accomplished coach who is likewise more than willing to accommodate the university’s modest salary scheme, thus demonstrating that his desire to provide proper guidance to his players in this educative process outweighs all else,” UST said.

Ayo is reportedly getting full control of UST’s hoops programs for a long term.

“We look forward with much hope and gratitude as we remain one with the entire UST community and alumni in our commitment to the formation of well-rounded Thomasian student-athletes through excellent sports program,” UST said.

The Tigers finished dead last the past two seasons, narrowly missing a 0-14 mark in 2017, and Ayo’s ability to turn UST’s fortunes around will be put to a test. Although Ayo won his first UAAP title with a star-studded DLSU team in 2016, he had previously shown his Midas touch in leading underdog Letran to the NCAA diadem in 2015.