UAAP weighs mic’d-up referees, FIBA-level officials for Season 88

UAAP Season 88 may feature significant officiating changes, including mic’d-up referees and the addition of internationally certified Filipino officials to the league’s exclusive referee pool.

A trusted source familiar with the discussions said that the use of microphones for referees is being explored to improve transparency and provide clearer insights into officiating decisions. The audio could be made available for league observation and possibly for broadcast, though no final decision has been made.

The microphones would be paired with post-game officiating reports for every match. These reports could be used to hold referees accountable, identify areas for improvement, and recognize strong performances. The same source indicated that officials may face suspensions for serious errors, while consistently good work could be rewarded.

League officials are also said to be working toward expanding the referee roster to include Filipinos who currently officiate in FIBA-sanctioned games. The goal would be to align UAAP officiating standards more closely with international practices.

As in the past season, referees assigned to UAAP basketball are expected to work exclusively for the league, avoiding assignments in other domestic competitions to maintain consistency in interpretations and standards.

While the UAAP Basketball Commissioner’s Office has in recent years made accountability and transparency in officiating a priority, these contemplated measures would represent a further step in that direction. The combination of mic’d-up referees, game reports, and an international-level pool could mark one of the most ambitious officiating reforms in the league’s history if implemented.

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