PBA implements officiating measures ahead of 2025 Philippine Cup finals 

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that officiating in the Philippine Cup Finals between the San Miguel Beermen and TNT Tropang Giga is fair, transparent, and free from controversy.

PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial confirmed that league officials have taken proactive steps to address concerns surrounding refereeing. On the eve of Game 1, representatives and head coaches from both finalist teams were invited to meet with league authorities to discuss officiating protocols and ensure clarity in communication between referees and coaching staff.

“Nag-board meeting kami nung Thursday, pinag-usapan namin na dalawang head coach or coaching staff pupunta sa PBA tomorrow para kausapin mga referees na ia-assign namin sa Finals para makita appreciation sa tawagan; pano tawagan, magkaroon ng kaunting liwanag mga coaches pati mga referees,” Marcial said during a press conference ahead of the Finals, emphasizing the importance of mutual understanding and preparation.

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The PBA’s increased focus on officiating comes in the wake of a controversial call—or rather, a missed call—during Game 5 of the semifinals between TNT Tropang Giga and Meralco Bolts. In the closing seconds, referee Jeff Tantay failed to call what appeared to be a crucial foul on Calvin Oftana as CJ Cansino went for a layup, a decision that sparked debate among players, coaches, and fans alike. Following the incident, the PBA suspended Tantay indefinitely, underscoring the league’s commitment to accountability and high officiating standards.

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PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial addresses the selection and assignment of referees for the PBA 50 Philippine Cup Finals, emphasizing precision and consistency in officiating as the championship series begins. | via Jan Ballesteros/One Sports#OSOnTheSpot #PBA50 pic.twitter.com/Q5ICxItkfi

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) January 19, 2026

Commissioner Marcial stressed that the Finals—given their high stakes and nationwide audience—require referees to perform at their best. “Tulad ng sinabi ng mga players, depende sa gising. Pero sa referees kailangan talaga laging handa. Masusupinde sila o baka matanggal sila,” he added, signaling the league’s zero-tolerance policy for mistakes that could affect the outcome of championship games.

In addition to pre-game briefings with coaches, the PBA is also implementing measures to monitor officiating performance closely throughout the Finals series. These steps include reviewing referee assignments, clarifying rules interpretations, and ensuring that any potential conflicts or misunderstandings are addressed before tip-off.

Game 1 of the Philippine Cup Finals is scheduled for Wednesday, January 21, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, where the Beermen and Tropang Giga will battle for the first of a best-of-seven series. With the league emphasizing transparency, preparation, and accountability, both teams—and fans—can expect a clean, competitive, and professionally officiated series.

As the Finals approach, the PBA’s proactive measures reflect its commitment to protecting the integrity of the game while ensuring that players, coaches, and referees operate under clear, fair, and consistent standards. For basketball fans across the Philippines, the series promises to deliver thrilling action, high-level competition, and officiating that matches the intensity of the game.

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