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PBA: Swab tests set Aug. 20 and 21... if gov't lifts MECQ

Sports | Basketball

PBA: Swab tests set Aug. 20 and 21... if gov't lifts MECQ

By Jonas Terrado

PBA commissioner Willie Marcial — PBA commissioner Willie Marcial (PBA Images)

The PBA will hold the mandatory swab testing of teams late next week, provided the government lifts the Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine imposed on Metro Manila after Aug. 18.

PBA commissioner Willie Marcial said nine ballclubs will undergo tests on Aug. 20 and 21 at the Makati Medical Center while the three teams under San Miguel Corporation will have their procedure using the company’s own facilities on almost the same dates.

The swab testing procedure is a final requirement before PBA teams can resume workouts under strict health protocols

READ: Swab testing to be implemented per team basis

Marcial said the PBA can start as early as Aug. 25 if COVID-19 tests yield negative results.

“Ang resulta nun is two to three days so baka 25 mag-practice na tayo,” said Marcial.

Those dates are set provided Metro Manila is reverted back to a less-stricter General Community Quarantine regulations.

READ: MECQ status foils return of practice sessions

President Duterte is expected to announce the new quarantine guidelines on Monday after Metro Manila and surrounding provinces namely Laguna, Cavite and Rizal were placed under MECQ for two weeks last Aug. 4 due to the increase in COVID-19 cases.

All 12 teams were supposed to have tests in the second week of this month, only to be rescheduled due to the implementation of the MECQ.

Pro leagues, including the Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3x3 and the Philippines Football League, are allowed to train under GCQ areas.

Teams are barred from holding workouts under MECQ, with players only allowed to individual training in public or private spaces.

Related Tags

PBA Philippine Cup PBA 45th Season Willie Marcial PBA Season 45 pba 45th PBA Season

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