The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) announced that it has initiated a dialogue with the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) concerning the pay structure for referees, particularly in women’s basketball.
This follows reports of an alleged pay disparity between referees officiating men’s and women’s games in the said league.
“In light of the recent issue regarding the pay gap for referees of men’s and women’s games, the SBP has already initiated a dialogue with the UAAP on how to improve the situation for all stakeholders,” the basketball body said on Saturday.
“Both organizations remain committed to making the sport as inclusive as possible and to advancing women’s basketball in the Philippines,” it added.
The UAAP previously clarified that it follows a “tiered, merit-based structure” that allows officials—regardless of gender—to earn their way into officiating higher-stakes games.
“The system serves as an incentive for game officials to maintain high standards in officiating. The technical head made recommendations on the structure, which was adopted in consultation with the referees,” the UAAP explained.
“Moving forward, while we will still maintain a tiered system, we will ensure that there will be no diminution of fees across all divisions from previous seasons,” the league added.
Reported pay gap
The issue surfaced through a report by Spin.ph, which claimed that referees officiating women’s games this season allegedly received reduced rates, with higher pay instead allotted to those handling men’s games.
According to the report, referees were paid P2,500 per game across all divisions last season. However, this season, referees for women’s and girls’ games reportedly receive P2,000, while those officiating men’s games get P3,000. Referees for the boys’ division continue to receive P2,500.
While the UAAP maintains its position on a tiered payment system, it reaffirmed its commitment to improving officiating standards through its ongoing referee development program.
“We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused and reaffirm our commitment to growing the sport and working with the community to empower student-athletes, coaches, and game officials—not only in basketball but across all sports under the UAAP,” the league stated.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
