House probes spate of 'player-fan' scuffles

MANILA, Philippines - Congress begins its investigation into the spate of fights that has marred the games in the Philippine Basketball Association with league officials and key players invited to the hearing today.

Manila Rep. Amado Bagatsing, chairman of the House committee on sports, games and amusements, called the inquiry set at 1 p.m. with PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios, chairman Lito Alvarez and Burger King coach Yeng Guiao expected to attend.

Wynne Arboleda, the Burger King skipper who figured in the recent beating of a PBA fan, is also expected to appear along with San Miguel Beer’s Danny Ildefonso, Purefoods’ Marc Pingris and Sta. Lucia’s Marlou Aquino, who all got involved in recent PBA scuffles.

Invited as resource persons were Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas officials Ricky Vargas, Noli Eala and Perry Martinez.

“With the highest respect to Rep. Amado Bagatsing, we’ll attend the hearing although I think this is untimely given all the problems faced by the country today,” Alvarez said.

Alvarez said Arboleda will also attend although it’s doubtful whether the player can comment on the incident since a case has already been filed in court.

Ildefonso, Pingris and Aquino were also invited to shed light on their involvement in separate fights with the PBA fans.

Arboleda’s case went to the extent of the player attacking and beating Smart Gilas fan Alain Katigbac. – Nelson Beltran