IT’S a go, for now.
Amid a cloud of uncertainties due to the lingering threat of the dreaded pandemic, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas President Al Panlilio insisted last Saturday the federation is determined to stage the third window of the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers in a bubble in Clark.
“Although we’ve indicated to the FIBA that times are very uncertain, we are committed,” Panlilio said on Radyo5 92.3 News FM’s Power and Play program hosted by former PBA commissioner Noli Eala.
“We’re fully committed to host in June,” he added.
The FIBA re-awarded the hosting of the final leg of the qualifiers to the Philippines with matches in Groups A, B, and C set to be played from June 16 to 20 in the former US military base which hosted the PBA Philippine Cup in a bubble last year.
The pro league’s success in Clark explains why the SBP is seeking help from PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial.
“We’re also tapping Commissioner Willie Marcial because of their experience,” Panlilio said.
“He’s willing to help to make sure we have safe and successful hosting.”
Panlilio, also the first vice president of the Philippine Olympic Committee, maintained that while the country is keen on hosting, precaution remains the foremost priority.
“That relationship with the IATF started last year and Sec. Vince Dizon is aware of what needs to be done and we have a team in Clark that can make it happen. At the end of the day, our main priority is to keep everybody safe,” he said.
“The FIBA has been strict, and they require teams to be under quarantine before entering the bubble and they require testing before leaving (their countries) to make sure they’re safe. Medyo marami din iyong papasok, so we have to make sure everybody is safe.”
The all-amateur Philippine five began its training camp last month at the Inspire Sports Academy in Calamba, Laguna but was halted last March 30 after the government reverted the National Capital Region and four provinces, including Laguna, under the strictest enhanced community quarantine.
