IN an effort to cover all bases ahead of the new season, the Philippine Basketball Association is coordinating with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.
PBA commissioner Willie Marcial paid a courtesy call to MMDA chairman Benhur Abalos as the league sought guidance for team training, among others.
The league is hoping to soon start practice in Metro Manila after NCR-plus was put into general community quarantine (GCQ) with heightened restrictions from May 15 to 31.
Under the new classification, indoor gyms and sports facilities are closed, preventing PBA teams from proceeding with full practices and scrimmages in the capital.
Abalos vowed to help the PBA and the basketball community, with the MMDA working on protocols that will be acceptable to the IATF, and will ensure that minimum health standards will be observed.
Marcial also made an assurance that all teams will strictly abide by the health and safety guidelines once it gets a green light from the government.
The two parties also discussed ways to create stronger coordination during the pandemic.
“Basketball is the Filipinos’ national pastime. But there is no denying that the PBA is faced with a tough challenge now because of the pandemic,” Abalos said.
“We have to ensure the safety of everyone, not only the players, but the general viewing public. We cannot compromise the health and well-being of all,” he added.
The PBA is seeking to push through with the season under a closed-circuit in which teams will be travelling from home to venue and vice-versa to ensure safety among the players, coaches, and other personnel.
Meanwhile, Batangas City is already prepared to host PBA team’s practice with the area under GCQ.
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