THE PBA is not forcing any team to train in Batangas City, but Commissioner Willie Marcial said it would be more convenient for everybody if it is chosen over other potential training grounds.
“Kasi sa Batangas kami na mag-aayos ng mga protocols, mga guidelines,” Marcial explained.
“’Yung sa iba, kani-kanila silang kuha ng mga necessary approvals samantalang ‘pag sa Batangas lahat ng mga kailangan kami na lalakad, mag-aayos.”
Marcial was referring to the approvals needed by any team that intends to train outside of the NCR Plus bubble, namely from the JAO, IATF and LGU. All the health and safety protocols must at least be similar to the hospital-like standards mandated by the PBA.
Ilocos Norte has a standing similar offer to at least host the teams’ training.
Going to the provinces to resume their training was forced on the teams since Metro Manila and its neighboring provinces are currently under MECQ, which prohibits sports-related activities.
Batngas City is under GCQ and Ilocos Norte on a more relaxed MGCQ.
As part of the government-enforced restrictions, the teams can only start their training, which includes full scrimmages, should a go-signal be given by the IATF. Marcial has already written a letter of request to that effect to the agency.
Due to its proximity to Metro Manila, where most of the players are based, reports have it that at least half of the 12 PBA teams favor Batangas City.
The provincial capital’s executives, led by Mayor Beverley Dimacuha and Rep. Marvey Mariño, have agreed to act as hosts to the teams’ training following a meeting with Marcial and Ginebra team representative Alfrancis Chua last Saturday.
Marcial is set to return to the city tomorrow to discuss the final details of PBA teams going there.
“Mainly, pag-uusapan doon security, ‘yung mga safety protocols, mga ganoon,” related Marcial.
“Lalo na ‘yung security, kasi baka may fans na sumingit sa kagustuhang manood ng practice,” added Marcial. “Naiintindihan natin ‘yun pero dapat maunawaan din ng fans na bawal iyon.”
The PBA wants a month-long practice for the teams before getting its 46th season started by the third week of June, at the latest.
That scenario will depend on whether the rate of infections in the country drops in the next few weeks, a condition put forth to Marcial and Chua when they met with Sen. Bong Go and Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea in Malacañang last week.
