Prior to tip-off the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons’ tilt against the DLSU Green Archers that will feature the possible debut of Rob Ricafort, UAAP executive director Rebo Saguisag Jr. shed light on the matter and the possible repercussions of fielding the controversial player.
A day before the game, UP was able to secure a temporary restraining order requested by Ricafort against the UAAP that was issued by Judge Marlo Magdoza-Malagar of Branch 19 of the Regional Trial Court of Manila. The TRO stops the UAAP from implementing its age eligibility rule of student-athletes that are in the line-up for 20 days.
The UAAP’s rule on age eligibility clearly states that student-athletes who would turn 25 during the UAAP calendar year (September, 2017-June, 2018) are no longer eligible to play in the league. Ricafort turns 25 on January 28, 2018 — still in the midst of the 80th season of the UAAP.
Still, the UAAP, as a corporation bounded by Philippine laws, will abide by what the court issued.
However, UP will run a risk if UP’s coaching staff, headed by Bo Perasol, if they decide to field Ricafort.
“Here’s the thing, I am not certain if he will be fielded or not, it’s the coach’s prerogative. As the commissioner, I will not restrain him from playing,” said Saguisag. “But they assume the risk depending on how the court will decide. After 20 days, we don’t know what will happen. It’s the team’s option.
“I will not stop them from fielding him in.”
Saguisag explained that this case is different from the case of NU Bulldog Matthew Aquino last season.
Last year, Aquino was able to secure a 30-day TRO allowing him to play five games after being declared ineligible due to him not being able to meet the mandatory number of months for residency. Aquino transfered from Adamson to NU back in 2016.
“The main difference is that the TRO died a natural death. All the games he played were valid,” furthered Atty. Saguisag.
“In this case, we do not know. Should the TRO be invalid and void (either in form or in substance), there will be a possibility that the games will be forfeited.”
