PBA slaps ₱20K fine on LA Tenorio for ‘making statements detrimental to the league’

LA Tenorio was slapped by the PBA with a ₱20,000 fine for making statements deemed as detrimental to the league.

The 38-year old native of Nasugbu, Batangas slammed officiating after Brgy. Ginebra lost in the winner-take-all match against Meralco in the quarterfinal round of the PBA Season 47 Philippine Cup.

The Gin Kings’ chief playmaker was visibly irked after referee Peter Balao called an offensive foul on a driving Scottie Thompson which resulted in the ejection of the reigning league MVP due to 6 fouls. He felt that it should’ve been a let-go since the play happened during a very crucial stage in the match.

WATCH: The crucial offensive foul called on Scottie Thompson!

“Huwag ninyo na ako munang interbiyuhin baka ano lang masabi ko sa officiating,” said Tenorio to reporters shortly after the game.

“Pero sabihin ninyo sa kanya. Siya nag-decide ng laro. Ang ganda-ganda ng laro eh,” he added.

Commissioner Willie Marcial announced the penalty after meeting with Tenorio on Wednesday.

“Bugso lang daw ‘yun ng damdamin,” Marcial quoted Tenorio as saying.

The league earlier justified the call made by Balao saying that it was indeed correct.

“Referee Peter Balao made the correct call,” said deputy commissioner Eric Castro who added that the game official was in the perfect position to make the crucial call.