PBA referee passes away


by Jonas Terrado

A member of the PBA’s pool of referees died on Tuesday, casting a dark cloud on the day the league celebrated its 44th anniversary.

Guillermo "Emy" Tangkion passed away after collapsing while participating in a workout held shortly after the PBA D-League games at the JCSGO Gym in Cubao.

Tangkion, who had no health issues in the past, was rushed to the hospital but attempts to revive him went futile.

PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial said the league will provide financial assistance to the family of Tangkion, who he considers as one of the league’s best performing referees.

A moment of silence was expected to be observed during Wednesday’s PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinal matches at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.