UAAP execs remind athletes to be responsible while using their platforms

MANILA, Philippines -- UAAP officials have no problem with their student-athletes using their platforms to speak out regarding current events or political developments in the country.

However, they warned that the student-athletes must be responsible when doing so.

Several UAAP stars have been vocal on social media in recent weeks, as they made their feelings known about what has been going on in the country -- from the Congress' passing of the controversial anti-terror bill, the shutdown of ABS-CBN, and the guilty verdict given to Rappler boss Maria Ressa on her cyber-libel case.

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UAAP executive director Atty. Rebo Saguisag said he personally has no problem with the student-athletes' foray into online activism.

"If it's a personal view, you're talking to the son of a human rights advocate, so I think you know the answer," said Saguisag, the son of former Senator Rene Saguisag Sr.

UAAP president Em Fernandez of the Ateneo de Manila University, for his part, noted that expressing one's opinion is something that is encouraged by their school.

"Everybody's entitled to their own opinion and that's part of the Ateneo culture and education that you have to voice it," he said.

"We do not say that you cannot, but you have to be responsible," he stressed.

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Saguisag also made it clear that the student-athletes have to be mindful of the law when they make their statements.

"As far as the UAAP is concerned, for as long as … they remain civil and honest and within the exercise of their rights, I don't think it should be curbed," he said. "No complaint has reached the UAAP Office, at the very least."

Among the UAAP stars who have been vocal on social media are Kobe Paras of the University of the Philippines, Jack Animam of National University, and Thirdy Ravena of the Ateneo de Manila University.

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