PBA chief Marcial meets with MMDA officials on existing policies

Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner Willy Marcial on Tuesday paid a courtesy call on Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Benhur Abalos at the agency’s headquarters in Makati City.

The two officials discussed ways to forge stronger coordination particularly during this time of pandemic.

Mr. Marcial also took time to seek clarification and guidance from the MMDA chief regarding existing rules and regulations of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) on contact sports such as basketball.

The MMDA official vowed to help the PBA and the basketball industry as a whole, saying they will work on some actions to be undertaken which will be acceptable by the IATF, ensuring that the minimum health protocols being implemented by the government shall be strictly observed and adhered to.

“We have to ensure the safety of everyone, not only the players, but the general viewing public. We cannot compromise the health and well-being of all,” Mr. Abalos said.

The league is eyeing training in Metro Manila as its quarantine status eases to general community quarantine with heightened restrictions.

Mr. Marcial said that in line with their push to resume training they will be strictly complying with minimum health standards and keeping the players and officials safe once given a green light.