The Games and Amusements Board will continue to implement guidelines that only allows the staging of bubble competitions and training in areas under Alert Level 3.
GAB made this announcement after Metro Manila and nearby provinces were placed under stricter measures following a significant rise in COVID-19 cases in relation to the holiday season and the local transmission of the Omicron variant.
Competitions and training in bubble setups are also required to secure the approval of the local government units, which can allow the presence of live fans in venues provided that guidelines implemented by the Inter-Agency Task Force are observed.
“All sports leagues, associations and/or promoters shall comply with the approval procedures for bubble training and competition of professional contact sports and shall ensure strict implementation and observance of health and safety protocols as prescribed in the (Joint Administrative Order),” GAB said Sunday, Jan. 2.
The reimposition of stricter measures forced the PBA to postpone this week’s scheduled games at the Smart Araneta Coliseum while it continues to secure a clearance from GAB and the LGUs.
PBA commissioner Willie Marcial earlier said the league is preparing for possible arrangements such having teams hold their own bubble setups inside Metro Manila and reverting back to playing without fans.
Full practices are also barred and teams will have to once again deal with having to do individual workouts which GAB permits as long as protocols are followed.
“Non-contact exercise and sports shall be allowed at the maximum of 30 percent indoor venue capacity for fully vaccinated individuals only and 50 percent outdoor venue capacity,” GAB said.
“Provided that all on-site workers/employees of these establishments, and organizers of these activities are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and MPHS shall be strictly maintained.
“Provided further, that there is no objection from the LGU where these activities may take place.”