PBA commissioner Willie Marcial. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—The coronavirus pandemic may have shutdown the PBA season until further noticed, but the deadly virus hasn’t stopped the players from making their presence felt through their humanitarian work.
From fund-raising efforts to personally handing out meals to the country’s frontliners and even the homeless, the players have done their fair share of helping those in need amid the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine.
PBA commissioner Willie Marcial has taken notice of the players’ kind gestures and has applauded them for doing charity work in times of crisis.
“I’m really happy and I thank the players, coaches, team owners, and governors who’ve helped,” said Marcial in the league’s official website.
Players such as Vic Manuel, Jio Jalalon, Kiefer Ravena, Abu Tratter, Ryan Araña, Paul Desiderio, and Calvin Abueva, who is still serving an indefinite suspension, all came to help to deliver food and necessities to the less fortunate.
Terrence Romeo also set up numerous donation drives to hospitals, providing personal protective equipment, food, and alcohol.
Alaska head coach Jeffrey Cariaso also spearheaded a campaign that collected more than P800,000 for the league’s game-day personnel.
Marcial added that there are also several players who have quietly helped without posting their good deeds on social media like six-time MVP June Mar Fajardo, LA Tenorio, and Beau Belga.
“June Mar is also donating, although, he’s not publicly sharing it. LA and Beau are doing the same,” said Marcial. “The people can’t just see it, but those guys are telling us what they’re doing.”
Marcial also said he encouraged his players to do what they’re doing especially with the uncertainty surrounding the health crisis.
“We’re still not sure on how to continue with the season, we’re just waiting what happens with this before we make any decision,” said Marcial.