There will be no reconsideration yet regarding the indefinite ban handed by the University Athletic Association of the Philippines on ex-University of Santo Tomas head coach Aldin Ayo.
According to multiple sources closely monitoring the situation, Ayo’s punishment for holding a “training camp” in Capuy, Sorsogon from late June to early August will still stand despite the conclusion made by Sorsogon City’s PNP that he has no liability.
Ayo, who resigned from his post last September 4, received the heaviest sanction that the league can sanction last September 11.
“Nothing has changed since the league based its decision on the internal investigation done by UST last August,” said one of the sources, who spoke under the condition of anonymity.
In the findings of the PNP prepared by Master Sargeant Jungie Vito and verified by Police Major Pedro Jimenez, all the actions performed by Ayo — from transport to Sorsogon to daily activities of the members of the Growing Tigers in Ayo’s compound — were in accordance with the health protocols and guidelines set by the IATF.
Moreover, the investigation concluded that no supervised workouts were held inside Ayo’s domicile. There were no prohibited basketball activities conducted by his guests outside of his residence and within the jurisdiction of the Province of Sorsogon.
It also stated that the purpose of bringing members of the Growling Tigers to Sorsogon was for them to learn the intricacies of farming while earning for their respective families.
This was certified by Sorsogon governor Chiz Escudero.
This is contrary to UST’s report that concluded that the “bubble” broke the following protocols:
2. The movement of all persons in areas placed under GCQ shall be limited to accessing essential goods and services, and for work in the offices or industries permitted to operate hereunder. Provided, that movement for leisure purposes shall not be allowed.
3. Any person below twenty-one (21) years old, those who are sixty (60) years old and above, those with immunodeficiency, comorbidity, or other health risks, and pregnant women, including any person who resides with the aforementioned, shall be required to remain in their residences at all times, except when indispensable under the circumstances for obtaining essential goods and services or for work in permitted industries and offices.
The implementing guidelines state the following:
c. Low Risk Areas. The conduct of physical activities and sports in these areas shall permit indoor or outdoor non-contact sports or activities for non-professional sports and contact sports or activities for professional sports.
With regard to an appeal, the league has yet to receive one.
The league’s constitution state that appeals should formally come from an official of a member school. In other words, it has to be endorsed by UST or any of the seven universities.
