SBP undergoes charter restudy

MANILA, Philippines — SBP elections, scheduled this August, will be postponed as it was recently decided to undertake a Constitutional Review with provisions in the 2006 charter requiring a revisit to determine relevance, practicability and timeliness.

SBP president Al Panlilio disclosed that PBA chairman Ricky Vargas has been designated head of the review committee with SBP executive director Erika Dy, former SBP executive director Sonny Barrios, UAAP executive director Atty. Rebo Saguisag, player representative Gabe Norwood and lawyers Marivic Anonuevo and Mickey Ingles as members. The committee has so far met once to prioritize items in the Constitution and By-Laws for restudy.

Panlilio said a provision in the Constitution for eligibility as an SBP member is the 236 rule which means an activity involving at least six teams over three months in each of two years. “That was the rule in 2006 but because of the pandemic, only eight of our more than 40 members were able to do it,” he said. “So if we held a general assembly today, we wouldn’t muster a quorum. We would need at least 25 active and qualified members for a quorum to hold an election. Conditions are different today than they were nearly 20 years ago. Another provision is officers may be elected only up to two four-year terms and after that, they will no longer be eligible.”

Panlilio said extensive research will be done to look into every provision. He noted that at least eight associations have lined up to join SBP and with its mission of inclusivity, membership could go up to over 50. “We want to continue to be transparent, inclusive and fair,” he said. “Early this year, for instance, we called a meeting of all stakeholders and asked if schedules of leagues could be coordinated and synched with our FIBA commitments. That included PBA, UAAP and NCAA.  For me, as SBP president, I’m accountable and it’s the reason why I make sure we are united in one direction.”

Panlilio said newly-appointed Education Secretary Sen. Sonny Angara has resigned as SBP chairman because government requires full attention at the Cabinet level. “It was with a heavy heart that we accepted his resignation,” said Panlilio. “Chairman Sonny, now Secretary Sonny, has been called for a bigger purpose. We’ll miss him but we know his heart will still be with us.”  It’s likely SBP vice chairman Rep. Robbie Puno will be elevated to take Angara’s place and the vice chairmanship will be vacant. “Officers will be held over with the delay of elections,” said Panlilio who also serves as a FIBA Central Board member. “In crafting an amended Constitution and By-Laws, we’ll align with FIBA’s vision, particularly as regards 3x3 and E-FIBA.”