The National Collegiate Athletic Association on Wednesday said its review of internal policies are ongoing, following the incident that happened on the game between Jose Rizal University and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde on November 8 where Heavy Bomber John Amores punched some Benilde players during the game.
In a statement signed by NCAA spokesperson and legal counsel Joseph Noel Estrada, the league said its collective response does not end with the imposition of the indefinite suspension to Amores.
"Due to the gravity of the offense, our collective response to the incident does not end there as we continue to review our internal rules, processes, possible changes and interventions to ensure that incidents such as this are deterred, discouraged, and prevented from happening again in the future. We have also initiated internal discussions on players' support not only in terms of physical fitness and training but in their mental health and well-being as well," it said.
The NCAA also reiterated that it has "immediately dealt with the players involved in the incident by issuing the corresponding sanctions through the NCAA Management Committee" which includes the Amores' indefinite suspension. "The resolution of the Mancom was arrived at after careful deliberation, due process, and in accordance with the NCAA's Manual of Operations."
The league also joined the public sentiment in condemning violence in sports and appealed for sobriety in expressing sentiments regarding the incident.
"We wish to let everyone know, that the NCAA joins the public sentiment, condemnation and outrage against violence and hooliganism in sports, and that we do not tolerate nor encourage violence in any form," it said. "We however, appeal for sobriety as the public continues to express sentiments on the incident, and refrain from encouraging more violence or issuing statements, videos, and call-outs that suggest the same."
The NCAA also said it will not give any comments on the filing of complaints against Amores.
"We also respect the decision of some of the parents of the players who have taken the issue to judicial processes as this is well within their rights. On this development, the NCAA is not in the position to give its comments on the culpability and liabilities of John Anthony Amores and others involved under the law and shall defer the matter to the sound determination of authorities and the courts."
As the oldest collegiate league in the country, the NCAA said it is still an institution which involves students, thus the league's actions are consistent with the principles of learning and student discipline.
"As we ensure sanctions imposed do not undermine the gravity of the offense and that it deters others from committing the same acts, we also ensure that the sanctions still leave a space for reformation and rehabilitation of erring players, no matter how small."
On Tuesday, JRU announced the removal of Amores from the team, along with the removal of the benefits of being a student-athlete.
In a 24 Oras report, the NCAA previously said it welcomed the points raised by Rep. Franz Pumaren which called on the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas to take action regarding the incident.
—JMB, GMA Integrated News
