The Games and Amusement Board and the University Athletic Association of the Philippines are joining hands to ensure fair and top-standard officiating in the school organizations’ basketball tournaments.
UAAP officials recently met with GAB chairman Richard Clarin, with the aim of fostering “closer collaboration and address key matters concerning officiating in UAAP’s basketball events.”
Representing the UAAP were executive director Rebo Saguisag, UAAP season 86 president Rodrigo Roque, UE Athletic director Melvin Reyes and secretariat staff Gaylee Villar and Lady Dawn Gonzales.
The focus of these discussions included the issuance of a special guest license to allow amateur players to participate in professional sports and games.
“Additionally, the GAB and the UAAP tackled the topic of referees involved in officiating amateur games, who may also be subject to licensure. Such licensing would be accompanied by corresponding responsibilities and obligations, considering the compensation received for their services,” said the GAB statement posted on its official FB page.
“The UAAP and the GAB expressed their mutual commitment to upholding the highest standards and ensuring fair and unbiased officiating in basketball. Both organizations aim to enhance the overall experience for players, fans, and stakeholders alike.”
Both officials also tackled how to help amateur athletes make a smooth transition to professional athletes.
One of the moves made by the GAB was to issue provisional GAB licenses to college players who will play in professional leagues like the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League and other leagues outside the Philippine Basketball Association.
The GAB said it looks forward to strengthening its partnership with UAAP in “developing a new generation of world-class Filipino professional athletes, reflecting the shared commitment of the UAAP and the GAB to continually improve the quality and integrity of intercollegiate sports.”