JUST when fans thought they have seen the last of Terrafirma, the Dyip took a U-turn.
After negotiations for the sale of the franchise with prospective buyer Zamboanga Valientes bogged down, Terrafirma opted to retain its team in the PBA, at least until the coming 50th season.
“Nag-bog-down iyong negotiations so hindi nag-materialize iyong deal noong dalawa,” pro league chief Willie Marcial said in a press briefing along with PBA board secretary and legal counsel Ogie Narvasa last Friday night.
“Ang Terrafirma ay patuloy pa rin sasali sa atin. So, 12 teams pa rin tayo sa 50th season,” he added.
Dyip governor Bobby Rosales, according to Narvasa, assured the league it would form a competitive squad in the golden anniversary of Asia’s pioneering pro league.
“Noong meeting, sinabi ni governor Bobby na they have their plans already. Hindi naman sinabi sa amin paano, siyempre hindi na sasabihin, strategy nila iyon,” Narvasa said. “But he has plans to beef up and have a full line-up.”
Terrafirma will now be without veteran playmaker Stanley Pringle, after he chose free agency and signed up with Rain or Shine last week.
High-scoring star Terrence Romeo’s contract is also set to expire next month.
The quintet, however, still owns the playing rights to Christian Standhardinger, if and when the bull-strong big man comes out of retirement.
Terrafirma, which has put its ball club for sale at the close of the import-less Philippine Cup, wound up with a paltry 3-30 record overall in the 49th season.
Unless they are serious about their promise, it will not be a surprise if the Dyip plummet to another woeful campaign.
