Manila, Philippines – In a significant move aimed at safeguarding the integrity of UAAP (University Athletic Association of the Philippines) games and ensuring the highest officiating standards, the league has announced the suspension of three referees for a period of three weeks.
This decision, communicated by UAAP Commissioner Xavier Nunag and Deputy Commissioner Mariana Lopa, comes following an extensive evaluation of the referees’ performance in recent games. The matches in question were UP vs. FEU, UE vs. Ateneo, and DLSU vs. ADU.
The suspended referees have faced scrutiny for their behavior, demeanor, and actions on the court, including their perceived failure to enforce the rules of the game. Such conduct was deemed a breach of the expected standards of conduct for UAAP referees and was seen as disruptive to the integrity of the games. Additionally, their performances in the REFEREE GAME REPORT CARD, a comprehensive evaluation tool, fell below the league’s expectations.
Commissioner Nunag emphasized the league’s commitment to providing competent and professional officiating, stating, “We take the responsibility of providing competent and professional referees to the league very seriously, and it is essential that all officials maintain the highest level of integrity and accuracy.”
The suspension, intended to provide the referees with an opportunity for reflection and performance improvement, will also mean that they will not officiate any playoff, final four, or finals games.
To ensure the continuity of officiating standards during this suspension, the UAAP will actively seek suitable replacements and will continue to monitor the performance of all referees using data-driven evaluations to maintain the highest standards.
This development underscores the league’s dedication to fair play and the utmost quality in every aspect of UAAP sports.
