REFEREE Benjie Montero is now doing fine after being punched by Cagayan Valley coach Alvin Pua twice on Thursday that led to the lifetime ban for the controversial mentor in the PBA D-League.
A source told Spin.ph Montero was released from Medical City shortly after a check-up, saying it was just a precautionary measure following the mauling incident at the Ynares Arena.
The referee, however, is not expected to officiate anytime soon as he still complains of pain in his ribs.
“Linabas naman agad. Nagpatingin lang,” the source said. “Masakit lang daw ‘yung tadyang.”
Montero also suffered a wound in his face after being hit by Pua in the second quarter of Cagayan Valley’s Foundation Cup game against Livermarin.
The led to his lifetime ban in the D-League, which the PBA will likewise recommend to the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) to be extended to all events sanctioned by the national governing body for basketball.
Salud said the league will also assist Montero if he pursues legal action for the attack.
[see Alvin Pua hit with lifetime ban, P.5M fine for mauling of referee]
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