UAAP to allow two foreign student-athletes in next season

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) came up with a new rule that will allow two foreign student-athletes (FSA) per school, effective next season.

However, Atty. Rene Saguisag Jr., the UAAP’s executive director, clarified that only one FSA will be included in the active roster, and the other will be relegated to the school’s reserve list.

The UAAP’s significant rule change was confirmed on Sept. 15, 2025, and is expected to benefit schools that might be unable to field their FSAs due to injury.

In retrospect, the National University (NU) Bulldogs faced a rough start in UAAP Season 87 when their FSA, Mo Diassana, sustained an ACL injury on the opening weekend against the De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Archers.

Due to the previous rule, Diassana couldn’t be replaced by another FSA, resulting in a failed bid for the Jeff Napa-led NU Bulldogs.

The new rule addresses this issue, giving UAAP teams the option to activate their reserve FSA to maintain their firepower.

This adjustment will not only apply to basketball, but Atty. Saguisag Jr. announced it will take effect across all UAAP sports.

Aside from the FSA rule, the UAAP will also change the award designation for the five best athletes of the season per sport.

Instead of the “Mythical Team,” the UAAP will now use the label “Elite Team,” also discussed by Atty. Saguisag Jr.

The UAAP stated that the change was inspired by FIBA’s “All-Star Five,” and it will be implemented starting UAAP Season 88 this weekend.