The AFC Cup was among the last professional sports events that took place here before the lockdown. Now, Ceres Negros and other pro clubs can resume practices. Dennis Acosta (file photo) |
By Ivan Saldajeno
MANILA--The first step to seeing professional basketball and football again is now officially set.
The IATF approved on Friday the joint administrative order set by the PSC, GAB, and DOH regarding team practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. The approval is part of the IATF Resolution 51.
In a chat with GAB chairman Baham Mitra on Wednesday night, he said that up to five people, four players and one trainer, will be allowed at a time in practices made in areas under GCQ like Metro Manila.
Meanwhile, in areas under MGCQ like Laguna, teams can begin practicing with 10 people at a time.
[Related Story: GAB presents basketball, football, boxing protocols to IATF TWG]
With this, PBA, PFL, and Chooks-To-Go Pilipinas 3x3 teams can return to training as long as they follow the protocols set by their respective leagues.
The PBA is expected to come up with a decision next month on whether it will push through with its 45th season or not.
The PFL, on the other hand, has yet to decide on when its own season will start or if the season is fully canceled, although PFF president Nonong Araneta has been keen on continuing the league this year.
[Related Story: PFF prexy Nonong Araneta hopeful on football's return in PH]
The Chooks-To-Go Pilipinas 3x3 also remains undecided on when it can push through with its 2020 season, but its move to return to practice is part of Gilas 3x3's gear up for the FIBA 3x3 OQT next year.
Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno