MANILA, Philippines — The proposed UAAP and NCAA merger is part of a “national objective” that aims to streamline the basketball program of collegiate leagues nationwide.

Manny V. Pangilinan, president of the BAP-Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, stressed this yesterday to allay fears and apprehensions on the grand plan to bring together the country’s top two school organizations.

“Both the NCAA and UAAP have a history of traditions; it’s hard for them to give up their histories and legacies,” said Pangilinan in a radio interview yesterday.

“We understand that. We have to be sensitive to considerations like that. But what should be more important is the national objective, especially for the collegiate players in the provinces who need national recognition.”

Pangilinan noted that the UAAP-NCAA union is just the initial step of a basketball program that aims to streamline the collegiate leagues nationwide.

“I think we’re very serious to have a more formal union not only of the NCAA and the UAAP, but hopefully on a national basis,” said Pangilinan. “We have to take baby steps before a formal union can happen.”

BAP-SBP executive director Patrick Gregorio had already initiated exploratory talks with several school officials the past week.

“There are apprehensions but it’s normal; it’s change” said Gregorio on the program “Sports Talk” anchored by former Senator and cage star Freddie Webb on DZMM.

“We are confident we can address this. One thing for sure, we’re not here to kill the tradition and the institution. We want to protect the UAAP and the NCAA. On our part, it’s how we can elevate the level of college basketball, how we can develop and rationalize the programs, and improve the programs of the federation.”

Among the concerns raised were the tournament format, the UAAP and NCAA’s distinct rules and the financial sharing between the two leagues.

“There are many issues we have to talk about,” said Gregorio, adding that the BAP-SBP will send a concept paper and a formal letter to the two leagues early next week.

The financial aspect of the merger is a big issue according to school officials.

“We have to agree on the financial sharing,” said Henry Atayde, St. Benilde’s representative to the NCAA management committee. “Will the UAAP agree to share to the NCAA the La Salle-Ateneo gate receipts? Or will the NCAA agree to share to the UAAP the San Beda-Letran gate receipts?”

The issue on the sharing of finances is a major concern, particularly because Ateneo-La Salle wars have been a cash cow of sorts for the UAAP.

The format of the merged league has also been contentious, but Gregorio said BAP-SBP has been open to recommendations.

“There are already about 24 proposals on the format,” said Gregorio. “But one that’s standing out is that both leagues will play. We’ll have a champion in the UAAP and the NCAA. Then after that, the top four in each league will battle in a crossover format.”

By Jasmine W. Payo
Philippine Daily Inquirer