PBA Philippine Cup canceled until further notice over virus

Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—The PBA on Wednesday announced the cancellation of the ongoing Philippine Cup, PBA D-League Aspirants Cup and PBA 3×3 inaugurals “until further notice” due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

“In a Special Board Meeting, held last night March 10, the Philippine Basketball Association Board of Governors through the Office of the Commissioner, decided with prudence to cancel effective today, March 11, its on-going PBA Philippine Cup and PBA D-League Aspirants Cup games and activities and PBA 3×3 inaugurals until further notice,” the PBA said in a statement.

The league just opened its 45th season last Sunday with defending all-Filipino conference champion San Miguel Beer beating Magnolia at Araneta Coliseum.

But since then, the number of confirmed cases in the Philippines has risen to 33 as of posting time.

“Considering the present situation surrounding COVID-19 and the Presidential declaration of Public Health Emergency, it is our paramount duty and responsibility to ensure the health and safety of our fans, players, teams, officials and staff,” the statement read.

“The league however will assess the effects of Covid 19 on a day-to-day basis guided by the parameters set by the DOH and WHO and will remain committed to conduct its games and activities in a safe and responsible manner for all its stakeholders.”