Perlas Spikers catch COVID-19 in Baguio

MANILA, Philippines — Seven players and a coach from the Perlas Spikers tested positive for COVID-19 while training in Baguio City as part of their preparation for the Premier Volleyball League’s (PVL) pro debut on July 17 in Laoag, Ilocos Norte.

Without naming the team members, PVL commissioner Tonyboy Liao confirmed the news and said the players and coach are now in quarantine. Perlas’ bubble training has been temporarily halted.

“They’re now isolated from the rest of the team,” said Liao. “Perlas bubble training in Baguio was suspended by GAB (Games and Amusements Board) as per regulations. The results of the RT-PCR will come out on July 6.”

Liao said the players would still be allowed to enter the Laoag bubble on or before the inaugural game as soon as they get negative results.

“It’s up to Perlas how many players will be available. At least they should have nine,” he said.

Creamline, PLDT, Cignal, Petro Gazz, Bali Pure, Army, F2 Logistics, Sta. Lucia, Choco Mucho and Chery Tiggo are the other teams playing in the PVL Open Conference.

News about volleyball players from the national team testing positive while training in Baguio broke out the other day, prompting the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to issue a denial. It turned out to be players from a PVL team.