The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) has lauded the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) for standardizing the pay of referees officiating both men’s and women’s basketball games, calling it a major step toward gender equality in Philippine sports.
In a statement Thursday night, the PCW said the UAAP’s decision aligns with national laws mandating equal pay for equal work, particularly the Magna Carta of Women (Republic Act 9710).
“This is the right and lawful action,” the PCW said, emphasizing that the move reflects fairness and compliance with gender equality principles.
The policy shift followed advocacy efforts from several groups, including “Go Hard Girls,” which raised concerns over the pay gap between referees in men’s and women’s divisions. The campaign also received support from women leaders, including Sen. Pia Cayetano.
The PCW commended UAAP’s swift response, saying it showed openness to feedback and commitment to improving its systems — a move that other sports organizations are encouraged to emulate.
The agency also highlighted that gender equality is not just a women’s issue but a shared responsibility that strengthens both institutions and communities.
It added that the UAAP’s decision stands as a reminder that “fairness and respect are the true foundations of
