The PVL is introducing foreign referees for the first time in league history to ensure neutrality and improve officiating standards.
For the first time in its history, the PVL is bringing in foreign referees to officiate the 2024-25 All-Filipino Conference semifinals.
PVL President Ricky Palou and PNVF President Tats Suzara confirmed the decision, emphasizing the league’s commitment to improving officiating standards.
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The semifinals and Finals will feature international neutral referees, starting with AVC international referee Adams Wong from Hong Kong, who will oversee the matches on March 29 at Ynares Center, Antipolo, alongside Filipino referee Joy de Imus.
Another international referee from Thailand will also take part in the officiating duties throughout the semifinals and Finals.
"As promised before we started the conference, we decided to get neutral referees from AVC," PVL Commission head Sherwin Malonzo told reporters. "These are international referees—one from Thailand and one from Hong Kong, Mr. Adams Wong and Ms. Sari.”
“Maganda ‘yung neutral referees. Hopefully, the teams would see that wala tayong pinapanigan na team. ‘Yun ang main purpose natin why we got international referees.”
Malonzo further explained that the international referees will take turns as first referees for the remaining games of the conference, supported by local Filipino referees such as De Imus and Jocelyn del Rosario.
"Initative ‘to ng league to show na for one, gusto nating maging world-class. We’re hoping na we go to that level. At the same time, these neutral referees, wala silang kilalang team,” Malonzo added.
As of posting, the semis battle between the Choco Mucho Flying Titans and Akari Chargers is currently ongoing with Wong and De Imus officiating the match.