MANILA, Philippines — Coach Bo Perasol will be back calling the shots for the UP Maroons earlier than expected after the UAAP decided to reduce the three-game suspension imposed on him earlier this month.
According to the ruling announced yesterday, the league lifted the third and final game of Perasol’s ban, making him available tomorrow when the second-running Maroons face No. 3 Santo Tomas in a crucial playoff positioning battle midway through the second round.
The UAAP stated Perasol’s personal apology over the weekend, not only to the league but also to official Jamie Rivano whom he engaged in the heated UP-Ateneo match at the close of the first round late last month, as the deciding factor in the mentor’s reinstatement.
“We appreciate his sincerity and evident humility in expressing his regret regarding the incident between him and referee Rivano which happened last Sept. 29. Coach Bo emphasized how he deeply regretted his actions towards the official and extended his apology towards the UAAP Board, organization, and the entire community,” said UAAP commissioner Jensen Ilagan in a statement.
UAAP executive director Rebo Saguisag supported Ilagan’s reconsideration on Perasol’s suspension while calling for everyone to move on and learn from the past.
“Nevertheless, the parties recognize that there will always be room for improvement in the area of officiating which needs the full cooperation of everyone involved, particularly the coaches, players, and officials,” Saguisag said.