UAAP commissioner Xavier Nunag takes leave of absence

Mariana Lopa, Marvin Bienvenida, and UAAP commissioner Xavier Nunag. –UAAP PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — UAAP basketball commissioner Xavier Nunag is taking a leave of absence due to a family health crisis.

The league on Friday said that the UAAP Board of Managing Directors has approved the leave of Nunag and his recommendation of appointing Deputy Commissioner Atty. Mariana Lopa to fill in his role.

“In light of these circumstances, the UAAP fully supports Commissioner Nunag’s need to prioritize his family’s well-being during this critical time,” the UAAP wrote. “Commissioner Nunag recommended Deputy Commissioner Atty. Mariana Lopa to be the acting commissioner during his leave of absence, which the Board of Managing Directors approved.”

“The UAAP extends its heartfelt thoughts and prayers to Commissioner Nunag and his family during this challenging period.”

Acting Commissioner Atty. Lopa will be taking over the responsibilities until Nunag returns to ensure the seamless continuation of technical basketball-related matters within the UAAP with Deputy Commissioner Marvin Bienvenida working hand-in-hand with her.

UAAP Executive Director Atty. Rebo Saguisag Jr. will continue to oversee the Basketball Commissioner’s Office and ensure transparency and fair play in the league.

Under Nunag’s term, three UAAP referees were suspended for three weeks following subpar performances in three separate games last month.

The commissioner’s office also slapped University of the East big man Precious Momowei with a one-game suspension due to his second unsportsmanlike of the season, disqualifying him from winning the Rookie of the Year or any individual award.

The league also spared Adamson coach Nash Racela from getting suspended after he apologized for his comments against tge officiating of their tough loss to Ateneo last week.

The men’s and women’s basketball elimination round will be concluded over the weekend.

The Final Four fires off next week.