PBA chairman ‘positive’ games will resume
PHILIPPINE Basketball Association (PBA) chairman Ricky Vargas expressed optimism for the league’s return to play despite the rising number of Covid-19 cases in the country.
During an appearance on the webcast of the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) on Tuesday, June 30, Vargas said he understands how dire the situation looks but that there is no harm in still looking at the bright side.
“We would like to really think positively about being able to go back. We will improve soon,” Vargas said.
The PBA had already submitted its health protocols for a potential return to practice by the teams and its players to the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on Emerging Infectious Diseases, but it has yet to get a reply.
The league has given itself until August to decide on whether it will continue with its stalled 45th season or just cancel it altogether.
Vargas shared there are positive signs, such as the Games and Amusement Board (GAB) seeking an audience with the IATF to discuss its own health protocols that can be applied if and when professional sports are allowed to resume operations in the country.
“The more positive note is the statement of GAB that it is also working to see that pro sports begin in the country,” said Vargas, who is also the Talk N Text KaTropa’s governor.
Vargas added that he and the rest of the KaTropa team are optimistic that the league can resume action in the near future.
“Our players are coming together and are very hopeful that we can start. Everyone is aware that we are protecting their own health interest and families with the protocols we have put together,” he said. /