AKO Referee - ARA

31/10/2025

OFFICIAL STATEMENT
Ako Referee Association – NCR
October 31, 2025

It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the untimely passing of our colleague and fellow referee, Mr. William Bulacan, who tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident on October 30, 2025, in Ragay, Camarines Sur.

Mr. Bulacan was an active and dedicated member of the Ako Referee Association, proudly representing SBP Bicol, where he began his officiating journey. His commitment to excellence and integrity in officiating earned him the distinction of serving in both NCAA Season 101 and UAAP Season 88, where he upheld the highest standards of fairness and professionalism.

His sudden departure is a great loss to the officiating community and to the sport of basketball in the Philippines. Mr. Bulacan was not only a skilled referee but also a mentor, a friend, and a symbol of passion for the game.

His wake is currently being held in his hometown of Bato, Camarines Sur, where family, friends, and colleagues gather to honor his life and legacy.

We extend our deepest condolences to the Bulacan family and loved ones. The ARA NCR stands in solidarity with them during this difficult time and calls upon the broader basketball community to offer support in any way possible.

May his memory continue to inspire us to serve the game with the same dedication and heart that he exemplified.

Rest in peace, Referee William Bulacan.
You will be deeply missed.

29/10/2025

Date: October 30, 2025
To: All ARA Members and the General Public

From: The Office of the ARA President

Subject: Unauthorized ARA Uniform Circulating on Social Media

Dear Members,

It has come to the attention of the ARA Officers that an unauthorized supplier has been circulating posts on social media offering uniforms claimed to represent the Ako Referee Association (ARA).

We would like to formally clarify that the said uniforms are not official and were not authorized or approved by the ARA or any of its officers. The use, purchase, or promotion of these unauthorized uniforms is strictly prohibited.

Members and the public are strongly advised to refrain from ordering or wearing any ARA uniforms that are not officially issued. Please note that the only authorized ARA uniforms will be officially released under the supervision of ARA President Joenard Garcia.

The ARA will not be held liable for any transactions made with unofficial sellers or suppliers. We urge everyone to verify the authenticity of any ARA-related items through our official communication channels before making any purchase.

Thank you for your attention and cooperation in maintaining the integrity and professionalism of our organization.

Sincerely,

Joenard Garcia
President, Ako Referee Association (ARA)

16/10/2025

October 17, 2025

AKO Referee Association Condemns Public Remarks by UE Coach Chris Gavina

MANILA, Philippines — The AKO Referee Association, representing game officials across the country, strongly condemns the recent public statements made by University of the East (UE) Head Coach Chris Gavina, which cast doubt on the integrity and performance of UAAP referees following a recent league game.

We consider these remarks not only unprofessional and inflammatory, but also deeply disrespectful to the men and woman who serve the game with impartiality, discipline, and commitment.

Referees are not above criticism—but such criticism must be made responsibly, through the proper channels, and never at the expense of a referee’s integrity or public image. Coach Gavina’s public statements have contributed to an atmosphere of distrust and unwarranted hostility toward officials, which has no place in collegiate sports.

"Respect for referees is respect for the game. Publicly attacking officials sets a dangerous precedent—especially in an educational environment where coaches are expected to lead by example," said an AKO Referee Association spokesperson.

We call on Coach Gavina to reflect on the impact of his words—not only on the referees involved, but on the young athletes who look up to their coaches for guidance on professionalism, maturity, and respect.

The AKO Referee Association stands firmly behind the officiating crew assigned to the match in question, and we extend our full support to the UAAP and its officiating program. We trust that the UAAP leadership will take appropriate action in accordance with its rules and values.

Referees are not perfect, but we are professionals. And we will continue to serve the game with integrity, despite the challenges and criticisms we face.

AKO Referee Association

04/10/2025

03/10/2025

Congratulations to FIBA Commissioner Emmanuel G. Faraon and FIBA Lifetime Honorary Member Liberato Valenzuela!

Both are respected members of the SBP Technical Academy as Referee Accreditors, and also serve as ARA Vice President (Faraon) and ARA Secretary General (Valenzuela).

We proudly celebrate their recent appointments:

🏀 FIBA Commissioner Emmanuel G. Faraon

Appointed as NCAA Technical Head S101

Appointed as UAAP Deputy Technical Head S88

🏀 Mr. Liberato Valenzuela

Appointed as UAAP Technical Head S88

Appointed as NCAA Deputy Technical Head S101

These appointments reflect their unwavering dedication, expertise, and commitment to elevating the standards of officiating in Philippine basketball.

08/09/2025

Congratulations!

FIBA COMMISSIONERS
FIBA GOL PASSER 2025-2027

08/09/2025

Congratulations! To all Filipino FIBA Referees 🙏🏀🇵🇭
FIBA GOL PASSER 2025-2027

31/05/2025

"Honored moment at the last SEABA 2025 in Pampanga – as FIBA Commissioner Emmanuel G. Faraon is nominated by FIBA as SEABA Commissioner. Pictured with FIBA Commissioner Hector Villanueva, TD Chung Min Wong and esteemed FIBA referees Aron Cañate and Totie Celeste and FIBA referees from other countries. A proud moment for Southeast Asian basketball!"

20/05/2025

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas on Thursday announced Gilas Pilipinas Youth's 18-player pool for the upcoming FIBA U16 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers.

The qualifying tournament will be held at the Bren Guiao Convention Center in San Fernando, Pampanga from May 24 to 30 as head coach LA Tenorio makes his debut for the young squad.

18-player pool: https://ow.ly/CqLl50VTBF3

20/05/2025

The Tournament Technical Delegate/Commissioner for the Vietnam Basketball Association (VBA) 2025. Excited to uphold the spirit of the game, ensure fair play competition, and contribute to the continued growth of basketball in the country.

FIBA Commissioner BUDZ CORTEZ JR
ARA Assigning officer
SBP Accreditor

20/05/2025

Basketball officiating is a challenging job. Referees have to make split-second decisions under pressure, often while being criticized by players, coaches, and fans. While it's normal to have strong emotions during a game, it's important to remember that referees are human and do their best to be fair.

Encourages everyone involved in the game to show respect toward officials, instead of shouting negative comments or blaming referees for every call, people should focus on supporting fair play, constructive comments- those aimed at understanding or improving the gameare far more valuable than aggressive or insulting remarks.

2025 NATIONAL PRISAA Technical Officials

Team ARA!