May 05, 2022

PBA board of governors eye revisions in UPC

THE PBA board of governors has decided to revisit the Uniform Players' Contract (UPC) and make appropriate revisions to adapt to the changing times.

"The UPC has been in existence for decades already and it's high time to revisit it given the development and changes in the basketball world," PBA treasurer Atty. Raymond Zorrilla of Phoenix Super LPG said in a presscon with Chairman Ricky Vargas of TNT, vice chairman Bobby Rosales of Terrafirma and Commissioner Willie Marcial Wednesday.

One of the foremost amendments being eyed is on cases of expiring contracts in the middle of the tournament. This has been a concern lately as games get pushed back if there's a rise in COVID-19 cases and strict quarantine restrictions are enforced.

"Definitely we're looking at provisions on expiring contracts of players while the season is ongoing. Maybe if the team is in contention and a player's contract expires, the club will be given the option to renew while it is in contention," said Zorrilla.

The pro league is also looking at making the UPC a tripartite agreement moving forward.

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"We'll suggest that the PBA will be a part of the UPC. Previously, the UPC is between the team and the player but right now we're going to make it tripartite with the PBA a party also to the contract," said the Phoenix exec.

Also being considered are provisions on injuries sustained while under contract, "using the players' images even after their retirement subject to agreement" and "imposing fines and penalties for violations of the UPC."

"The main thrust of revisiting the UPC is to make it a contract of sanctity that would not be violated, that is fair not only to the PBA and the teams but to the players as well," said Zorrilla.

"We'll sit down with the management committee to discuss urgent revisions or amendments that will be proposed and submitted to the board for approval." (OL)