The UAAP Season 88 Football Commissioner’s Office, led by Commissioner Rely San Agustin, has moved to clear the air following recent online reports suggesting that three match officials had been suspended over controversial calls in the collegiate men’s and women’s divisions.
According to San Agustin’s office, these reports are inaccurate.
The non-selection of head referees Meliton Pelayo and Mick Jon Pineda, along with assistant referee Annalou Arrogante, for upcoming matches does not constitute a suspension.
Instead, the decision is part of a “cooling-off period” designed to ease tensions between officials and certain teams.
(C) UAAP Season 88 Media Team
“All three officials remain active members of the refereeing pool and are expected to officiate matches again in the future,” San Agustin clarified.
The league, in partnership with the Philippine Football Federation, continuously reviews refereeing performances across all collegiate and high school matches to ensure fairness and enhance officiating standards.
San Agustin’s office also stressed that any decisions or sanctions issued — whether involving referees, coaches, or student-athletes — apply only to UAAP matches and have no bearing on external leagues.
Lastly, the UAAP urged fans on social media to refrain from publicly shaming referees.
Officials are essential to the smooth operation of matches, and while their calls may not always satisfy everyone, they are consistently reviewed to improve both individual performance and the overall officiating pool throughout the season.
