PBA return plan draws positive response

MANILA, Philippines — The PBA welcomed the wide interest and support its planned bubble is getting from various sectors that see the “new normal games” as a breath of fresh air in these trying times.

Commissioner Willie Marcial said there’s been a positive response especially from the tourism industry, revealing that nine hotels in Metro Manila, three in the provinces and one international hotel have already offered to be the bubble hosts.

“We’re happy to see the PBA bubble get a lot of support,” Marcial told The STAR.

The Philippine Cup resumption is viewed not only as an inspirational boost to basketball-loving Filipinos but also a needed shot in the arm for tourism stakeholders.

“General managers of the hotels were telling me the PBA is not just revitalizing sports with our resumption but also tourism,” said Marcial. “This makes us even more determined to resume play.”

The pro league is looking at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, the Inspire Sports Academy in Laguna, the Coca Cola Arena in Dubai, and facilities in Batangas, Clark, Subic, and El Nido, Palawan for its bubble hub.

“Basketball is the sport loved by Filipinos and maybe it’s about time we give back to the fans, “ PBA chairman Ricky Vargas said during Wednesday’s Sports Page show on One Sports.