The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has adopted its Safe Sport Policy, reinforcing the federation’s commitment to providing a safe, respectful, fair, and inclusive environment for everyone involved in basketball throughout the Philippines.
The policy establishes a safeguarding framework designed to protect athletes, coaches, officials, organizers, and other participants from abuse, harassment, discrimination, and other forms of maltreatment in basketball-related activities.
The policy applies to all active participants in SBP-sanctioned activities, whether held in the Philippines or abroad. All SBP member organizations are likewise expected to implement the safeguarding policy within their respective programs and activities.
Under the policy, the SBP maintains a zero-tolerance position toward bullying, discrimination, exploitation, harassment, hazing, homophobia, neglect, and abuse of any kind.
The federation recognizes that safeguarding extends beyond preventing physical harm. It also involves protecting the emotional and psychological well-being of participants and establishing an environment where individuals can participate in basketball without fear of mistreatment.
A central component of the Safe Sport Policy is the establishment of reporting, investigation, and disciplinary procedures for alleged violations.
Individuals who experience, witness, or possess information regarding a possible violation may report the incident to the designated Safeguarding Lead of the SBP or the concerned member organization.
Reports may be submitted verbally or in writing, with verbal reports documented by the Safeguarding Lead before being forwarded to the SBP Safeguarding Officer.
The Safeguarding Officer is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the policy and investigating reported violations while observing due process and confidentiality.
Special safeguards are established for cases involving children, including the involvement of parents or legal guardians, subject to considerations concerning the child’s safety and welfare.
Where potential criminal activity is identified, the policy also provides procedures for referral to the appropriate authorities.
Individuals involved in reported incidents are afforded opportunities to present their respective positions, with an appeals mechanism available through the Audit & Ethics Committee of the SBP Board of Trustees.
Violations of the Safe Sport Policy may result in disciplinary sanctions, depending on the findings of the investigation and the determination of the designated Disciplinary Panel.
Possible sanctions include warnings, monetary fines, removal from position, suspension, or a ban from SBP-sanctioned activities, as well as other sanctions consistent with FIBA Internal Regulations.
The SBP will also report determined violations and imposed sanctions to FIBA and the concerned member organization, when applicable.
The policy provides for the confidentiality of proceedings and the annual review of its provisions to maintain alignment with relevant national and international sporting authorities, including FIBA and the International Olympic Committee.
Through the implementation of the Safe Sport Policy, the SBP aims to strengthen accountability, encourage responsible conduct, and promote a culture of respect across all levels of Philippine basketball.
The federation encourages all member organizations, athletes, coaches, officials, and other stakeholders to familiarize themselves with the policy and uphold its principles in their respective activities.
