In a sport where experience and tenure often define authority, Afeya Maronilla is redefining the game. At just 16 years old, she is already a licensed professional basketball referee actively officiating in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL)—a major league that stands just behind the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) in stature.
Active Assignments in the MPBL Afeya’s role in the MPBL is not honorary—she’s working the actual games, making high-pressure calls alongside veteran referees in front of packed crowds and broadcast audiences. Her official MPBL game assignments include:
- March 14, 2025 – Biñan City, Laguna
- March 25, 2025 – Cuneta Astrodome, Pasay City
- April 14, 2025 – Paco Arena, Manila City
- June 16, 2026 – Cuneta Astrodome, Pasay City
Each game features top-level competition, including former PBA players, national athletes, and coaches with championship pedigrees. For Afeya, these are more than games—they are proving grounds.
A Licensed Pro with GAB Authority Afeya holds a Games and Amusements Board (GAB) license—a mandatory requirement for any official working in professional basketball leagues in the Philippines. Securing this license at such a young age is an achievement in itself, and a validation of her capability, discipline, and knowledge of the game.
Earning Respect in a Male-Dominated Field In a profession dominated by older male referees, Afeya’s presence is historic and groundbreaking. But more importantly, she has earned her place not by symbolic inclusion but through actual performance on the court. She keeps up with the game’s speed and complexity, even during tightly contested matches. She holds her ground during technical reviews, coach confrontations, and pressure situations. She has shown an exceptional understanding of FIBA rules, shot clock regulations, defensive/offensive officiating balance, and game flow management. Senior officials have noted her as poised, intelligent, and fearless, a rare combination even among veteran referees.
A Symbol of Change in Philippine Sports Afeya is more than a referee—she’s a symbol of what’s possible in Philippine sports officiating. Her entry into the professional ranks isn’t just about youth or gender; it’s about a new standard of training, mentorship, and courage. Her story signals a shift toward: Youth inclusion in officiating pipelines Female empowerment in professional basketball Elevated standards for referee recruitment and development She has opened the door for other young Filipinos—especially women—who see officiating not just as a side path, but as a career of honor and influence.
What’s Next for Afeya? With the MPBL under her belt, Afeya’s next steps could lead to the PBA, or even further: Becoming one of the first FIBA-accredited referees from her generation Representing the Philippines in ASEAN or international tournaments Mentoring future batches of young female referees through national programs
Final Thoughts Afeya Maronilla is not just officiating games—she’s making history. From Biñan to the Astrodome, from Paco Arena to national TV, she blows the whistle with authority, knowledge, and grace. At 16, she’s already part of Philippine professional basketball. The game sees her, respects her, and moves forward with her.
