By ADRIAN STEWART CO

As a safety precaution due to the coronavirus disease 2019, or COVID-19, pandemic, the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) announced the cancellation of the entire 83rd season.

In a statement sent to the media, the UAAP Board of Trustees came to the difficult decision of cancelling the entire season originally slated for April 2021 following a series of discussions.

“The UAAP Board of Trustees is putting major consideration on the health and safety of the student-athletes and those involved in the operations of our competitions,” the UAAP said.

The UAAP also said that the decision will allow UAAP member-schools to plan their activities for the remainder of the academic year, as well as their athletic programs for next season.

“Both the Board of Trustees and the Board of Managing Directors will further discuss the implications of the cancellation for the guidance of the member-schools and student-athletes,” the league further said.

The decision to scrap the entire Season 83 came days after rumors surfaced that UAAP is considering to hold bubbles for men’s basketball and women’s volleyball come April 2021.

This was not the first time the UAAP has decided to cancel the season due to COVID-19 pandemic after not holding the remainder of UAAP Season 82 earlier this year due to enhanced community quarantine in the entire country./ASC, WDJ