Blackwater hands off on Paul Desiderio abuse allegations

Paul Desiderio during the 2018 PBA Draft. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Blackwater said it reserves the right to comment on its player Paul Desiderio, who was accused by his ex-partner Agatha Uvero of domestic abuse.

The Bossing released a statement on Wednesday after Uvero posted a series of tweets alleging that Desiderio committed physical and emotional abuse during their relationship.

“We respect the personal life and privacy of our players unless they seek our help and assistance. We reserve the right to comment on any social media posts especially if they are unverified,” the statement from Blackwater read.

The team also said it will launch a probe if the said player gives consent.

“If the allegations were true and the concerned player consents, then we will look into it and possibly come out with our position.”

Blackwater, however, stressed it doesn’t tolerate violence against women and children.

“Definitely, we abhor any and all forms of violence against women and children. Women and children deserve nothing less of our love and respect,” the team concluded.

PBA statement re Paul Desiderio pic.twitter.com/HyS8e5u4Og

— PBA (@pbaconnect) July 13, 2022

Earlier, the PBA also issued a statement, saying it will not condone any form of domestic abuse and will “conduct an inquiry and hand down its findings and resolution as soon as the facts are clearly established.”

Desiderio has yet to share his side as of posting time.

The former University of the Philippines star was drafted by Blackwater as the fourth overall pick in the 2018 PBA Rookie Draft. He recently signed a contract extension with the team last January.

The 25-year-old guard, however, suffered an ACL injury last May 31 and will miss the PBA Season.