Sanctions up vs erring PBA stars

CEBU — As in any other undertaking, the 2004 PBA All-Star Week has not been free from irritations.

But players being prima donnas and delinquents have been the worst cases thus far, and due sanctions are in the offing, according to PBA commissioner Noli Eala.

The league commissioner said he’ll impose fines on players who have been snubbing, skipping or missing out activities being undertaken by the PBA in this weeklong spectacle here.

"We’re not here for a vacation and players have to take part in activities being arranged by the organizers. These are all official PBA functions," said Eala.

"While most of the players have been showing great enthusiasm, some may be feeling these activities are not that important. We must understand that these are for the fans. We won’t be where we are right now, without the fans."

The Commissioner’s Office has started to check out attendance as it observed the increasing numbers of players remiss in their duties and obligations in several activities.

"Ang daming nagpapa-star lalo na yung mga beterano, samantalang para sa kanila naman ito," said one observer, aware that the revenue that the All-Star Game will generate will all go to the Players Trust Fund.

"Kung sino nga yung maraming angal, sila yung wala dito o nandito nga, wala naman enthusiasm," the observer added.

Incidentally, six stars begged off from joining the All-Star festivities, citing different reasons. These are Danny Ildefonso, Danny Seigle, Alvin Patrimonio, Rudy Hatfield, Dennis Espino and Jeffrey Cariaso.

Meanwhile, one player demanded extra accommodation for two companions or he would skip the Cebu spectacle. He got his wish but has been missing in various activities here. — Nelson Beltran