UAAP tightens health protocols after passing of two student-athletes

The UAAP will enforce stricter health measures when Season 88 opens on September 19, following the untimely passing of two young basketball players during training sessions.

UAAP executive director Atty. Rebo Saguisag stressed during a preseason press conference at the University of Santo Tomas that the league has always prioritized athlete safety, but will now take even more precautions.

“Sa competition side, may emergency medical services naman kami,” Saguisag said. “But, we’re also ensuring na sa training, meron silang pre-participation medical screening, mas papapaigtingin lang. 

I’m sure, meron naman na sila, pero mas cautious pa kami ngayon to remind the schools in their training venues.” He added. 

The heightened vigilance comes after two tragic incidents in recent months. On June 28, National University’s Ashlyn Abong, a former Gilas Women’s guard, collapsed during training and later passed away at just 18 years old. 

Less than two months later, University of the Philippines recruit Israel Friday, a 19-year-old Nigerian center, also collapsed in practice and did not survive.

#UAAPSeason88 UAAP strengthens medical screening, emergency measures for member schools, by @ErnestTuazon #ReadMore https://t.co/bvhZkeF8HG pic.twitter.com/3CYeMHcnj0

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In response, UP has already reinforced its own medical protocols for student-athletes. UP Office of Athletics and Sports Development (OASD) Director Bo Perasol earlier told ABS-CBN News that all students must undergo medical evaluation before entering the university, while athletes face an added requirement.

“They have to undergo tests, ‘no? Ngayon, sa cardiovascular tests muna. Regardless, kung nag-undergo na sila ng sinasabi ko kanina na PMSE, but they have to go para ma-clear lang natin about their medical kung meron silang medical conditions ngayon,” Perasol explained, referring to the mandatory pre-participation medical sports evaluation (PMSE).

With these measures in place, the UAAP hopes to provide athletes a safer environment both in competition and in training as it ushers in a new season.

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