By Andrei M. Barrantes

With the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 87 fast approaching, the UAAP Board of Directors officially announced all the amendments and additions to their guidelines in the official collegiate basketball press conference today, September 4, at the Novotel Manila in Quezon City.

In light of the recent upward trend of player transfers to and from member schools, UAAP executive director Atty. Rebo Saguisag announced that players from member schools transferring to fellow member schools after the School Year 2023-2024 will now be charged two playing years while still serving one year for residency. 

“Any transfer made after Academic Year ‘23-’24 or [after] Season 86, aside from the usual being charged [with a] residency… And that residency will be considered as a[n] eligibility year. But instead of just one, it will be two,” Atty. Saguisag said.

After early speculations of possible rule changes on residency surfaced in May, Senator Pia Cayetano warned the UAAP about possibly contravening Republic Act No. 10676 or the Student-Athletes Protection Act, which she authored. 

When asked on the possible ramifications of the amendments of league rules, Atty. Saguisag assured that all decisions were made with the consideration of the athletes and the schools involved.

“We are ready to defend [the decision] if called upon… However, let me state for the record [from] all of us in this room that the welfare and interest of each and every student-athlete is of paramount importance,” he added.

While no changes to the rules of the games were made, UAAP Commissioner Xavier Nunag announced the introduction of a suspension appeal process, where teams have 24-48 hours to appeal a player suspension.

After submitting the appeal, the commissioner’s team has 24 hours to review the appeal and determine if the decision stands or if the penalty shall be reduced.

The suspension appeal opens the possibility for players to avoid disqualifications for awards that they may be in the running for.

All UAAP rule changes are to be implemented this upcoming Season 87 onwards, which will kick off with its opening ceremony on September 7 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City. 

(Photo by Gwyneth Mendoza/FEU Advocate)