THE Games and Amusements Board (GAB) has found sufficient basis to formally investigate the alleged game-fixing controversy involving the Bacolod MassKara, with players expected to receive show-cause orders and potentially face penalties ranging from suspension to the revocation of their professional basketball licenses.
In an exclusive interview with DWAR 1494 Abante Sports Now, GAB Chairman Atty. Francisco Rivera said the Board has already secured the game footage and is reviewing the final quarter before formally initiating administrative proceedings.
“We obtained the tape of the game, the next step would be to initiate an investigation,” Rivera said.
While stressing that the GAB cannot prejudge the outcome, Rivera said there is already enough basis to move forward with the case.
“We can say there’s a basis to initiate an investigation,” he said.
According to Rivera, the first step will be issuing show-cause orders to the players involved, requiring them to explain why they should not be sanctioned.
Once the players submit their responses or fail to do so within the prescribed period, the Board will deliberate and render its decision.
Rivera said the possible penalties will depend on the evidence gathered during the investigation.
If the allegations are substantiated, those involved could face charges under the country’s Anti Game-Fixing Law or administrative sanctions for conduct unbecoming of a professional basketball player.
The GAB chairman explained that penalties may range from a three-month suspension to the revocation of a player’s professional license, which he described as the most severe punishment the Board can impose.
“Once you revoke the license of a basketball player, that’s it for him. His career would be ended,” Rivera said.
He likened license revocation to the “capital penalty” in criminal law because it effectively ends an athlete’s professional career.
Rivera also defended the MPBL’s efforts to combat game manipulation, saying the league has worked closely with the GAB by stationing Board personnel on team benches during games to monitor player and coaching staff behavior.
He added that the MPBL has previously issued Red Cards, suspended personnel, and even removed a franchise from the league, while the GAB continues to conduct its own independent investigations.
“Our message to all professional players is that they have to abide by their responsibilities as professional basketball players. If not, there would be consequences,” Rivera said. (Jesus Nathaniel Valdez)
