KEAN Baclaan has apologized for his actions during an inter-barangay league championship game in Muntinlupa after its officials have suspended him for the rest of the tournament.
Baclaan along with players Ram Panganiban, Alfie Silva, Jayson Tugonon, and coach Hansel Malate have been suspended “for physically attacking and disrespecting game officials” during Barangay Bayanan’s best-of-three series opener against Cupang in the La Liga De Muntinlupa.
Cupang also won the contest by forefeiture.
The highly-emotional incident held at the Muntinlupa Sports Complex has recently gone viral, with Baclaan allegedly charging referees of the game. The video also saw fans spilling onto the court, some of which were throwing objects such as empty water bottles.
On his Facebook page, the former National University player who has transferred to La Salle, apologized to his team and their fans for the incident, and promised to act more responsibly on and off the court.
“I want to say sorry for my actions which may have disappointed all of you. Inaaamin ko po na nagkamali ako dahil dapat ako ang naging ehemplo ng mga umiidolo sa akin pero hinayaan ko na pangunahan ako ng emotions ko. I also want to apologize sa mga taong nadamay sa gulo,” said Baclaan.
Baclaan also said the incident was not a reflection of his true character.
“Sana po this one mistake will not be the basis of my whole character and personality. Maraming salamat po sa patuloy na sumusuporta at naniniwala sa akin,” said Baclaan.
Incidentally, one of Baclaan’s teammates with the Bayanan team is La Salle teammate Kevin Quiambao, who is coming off a stint with Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament.
League officials, meanwhile, have stepped up to prevent the incident from happening again.
In a post by Barangay Poblacion captain Allen Ampaya, league officials said they will limit the number of spectators at the Muntinlupa Sports Complex for Game Two on Tuesday. Bottled water, canned drinks, and other hard objects will not be allowed.
Minors will also not be granted entry in the match.
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