By Jonas Terrado
Calvin Abueva said that the psychological tests he had undergone as part of conditions before his possible reinstatement in the PBA has helped a great deal in changing his perspective in life.
Phoenix's Calvin Abueva, right, celebrates with teammate Jason Perkins. (MB File Photo)
The suspended Phoenix Super LPG star bared in Saturday’s episode of 2OT that he needs just four more sessions in order to complete the tasks given to him by PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial.
But the COVID-19 pandemic has put a halt to the process that began when Abueva apologized for making a lewd gesture at the girlfriend of then-Blackwater rookie Ray Parks Jr. and for throwing a clothesline at TNT KaTropa import Terrence Jones last year.
Abueva has also taken a drug test apart from being active in outreach activities, especially when the pandemic forced the government to implement a community quarantine in mid-March.
The psychological test is the last hurdle before Marcial will decide on reinstating Abueva, more than a year after being slapped with an indefinite suspension coupled with a combined fine of P70,000.
“Sayang nga at nagka-pandemya, di nasunod-sunod yung sessions ko about sa psychology,” said Abueva. “Sa dalawang psychology sessions ko, nakatulong sa akin at naging comfortable ang buhay ko.
“Ang dami kong na-improve sa sarili ko, about sa family, sa pakikisama sa ibang tao. Yun nga, na-prepare ko yun at iniintay ko na lang yung apat na sessions ko sa psychology para makabalik."
Abueva endured more controversy after being slapped with an indefinite ban when he was accused by his wife Sam of domestic violence during a public feud in July.
The couple eventually reconciled and opened a restaurant in San Juan named “Dampa ni The Beast.”
The PBA has also allowed Abueva to attend Phoenix practice since September in one of the first steps toward a possible return.