Clint Escamis discussing with a game official during Mapua’s game vs. Benilde, September 7, 2024, at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay. Photo from NCAA Philippines 

MANILA — Mapua University has banned an individual who attacked one of the referees after the NCAA Season 100 game between the Cardinals and College of St. Benilde, the league announced on Tuesday.

"Last Saturday, the NCAA received information that unidentified persons attacked one of its referees after the game between the Mapua Cardinals and the Benilde Blazers," the NCAA said in a statement.

"With the help of Mapua University, the Mancom was able to identify one of the persons involved in the incident. The Mancom was also informed that said person will be banned by Mapua from participating in any of its school events."

"The referee involved received immediate medical care and is currently in a safe condition. We are grateful for the quick response of the medical team and all those who assisted in ensuring that the referee was immediately attended to," they added.

The Blazers had beaten the Cardinals, 78-65, in what was the first game of the season for both squads.

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The NCAA is still doing its own investigation on the incident.

"The NCAA would like to take this opportunity to assure everyone that it is taking this matter seriously. The NCAA Management Committee (Mancom) has immediately convened and has since launched an ongoing investigation," the league said.

"The Mancom shall be guided by the association's Manual of Operations in handling this concern and shall impose the appropriate penalty within its rules to ensure that those responsible are held accountable."

The league said that it is also coordinating with the Mall of Asia Arena, where the game was held. 

"In addition, the Mancom is coordinating with the SM Mall of Asia Management to investigate how the incident unfolded; the security protocols observed and breached within the venue, if any; and, the possible additional measures which may be implemented to ensure the safety of everyone during games." 

"The NCAA has also activated measures to further ensure the safety of its student-athletes, coaches, game officials, staff, and the audience during its games.

"The NCAA does not condone violence. As the oldest premiere collegiate league that prides itself on fostering sportsmanship, respect, and camaraderie, violence of any kind has no place in our league. The safety and well-being of all participants in our sports events and tournaments, including players, coaches, game officials, staff, and audience are given utmost importance." 

"Accordingly, violent acts which not only undermine the integrity of the game, the league, and the sports, but also threaten the safety of everyone involved, will not be tolerated. The NCAA will address this incident in accordance with its rules consistent with the association's mission of promoting sportsmanship, camaraderie, academic excellence, and respect towards one another."

"As the NCAA undertakes these measures, we request for the support of the community. Let us stand united in promoting and upholding the values of respect and sportsmanship that define collegiate sports."