The Games and Amusements Board has warned the Billiards and Snooker Congress of the Philippines of the consequences of holding tournaments without securing a permit from the government agency.
“We might resort to the powers of the GAB to issue a cease and desist order against the tournament,” said GAB chairman Eric Buhain during yesterday’s PSA Forum at Shakey’s on United Nations Ave.
Buhain issued the statement in the wake of a controversy that broke out last week when two professional billiards tournaments put up by warring groups in the sport were held simultaneously.
From May 6 to 11, the BSCP under Ernie Fajardo staged the Mandaluyong Cup 10-Ball that was participated in by some foreign players and won by Antonio Gabica who took home $10,000.
The Billiards Managers and Players Association of the Philippines, on one hand, staged the Senate President Manny Villar 9-Ball won by Warren Kiamco who bagged the P400,000 top purse.
“The players will be the ones affected because they will be denied of the chance to earn. We don’t want that. It will also be a pity on the organizers who will be the ones to look for sponsors,” he added in the same session sponsored by Shakey’s, the Philippine Amusements and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), Accel, Brickroad gym, Aspen spa and MedCentral Medical Clinics and Diagnostic Center.
“And on the side of the promoters it’s their license,” said Buhain, who’s aware of the BSCP plans to hold a sequel to the Mandaluyong Cup, one that will be hosted by Palawan Mayor Edward Hagedorn.
Buhain said while the BMPAP operated with the needed permits and licenses for its players, the BSCP “insisted” that it did not need any clearance from the GAB to hold the event.
Buhain, however, said he still granted a permit to the Mandaluyong Cup, a permit that costs only P800 for every playing day, when the office of the city mayor worked for its issuance.
Buhain said the GAB, under Presidential Decree 871, is mandated to regulate or look into professional sports, one that offers cash prizes, its athletes and promoters as well. – Abac Cordero