Romero urges IATF to OK PBA bubble

House Deputy Speaker and NorthPort PBA team owner Mikee Romero said the public needs something to watch and enjoy, and giving the pro league the green light to resume its games could be the best entertainment the government could give to the Philippine population in these difficult times.

With sports at a standstill and everybody still dealing with the impact of the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, Romero is urging the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) to allow the PBA to resume its season in a “bubble” concept in Clark, Pampanga, similar to the successful model the NBA has at Disney World in Florida.

“The resumption of the PBA will help the Filipinos cope with depression and COVID. I am certain it will provide relief,” said Romero. “We can use the relaxation after months of anguish.”

While he’s fully aware that the government task force is still facing a gigantic task in trying to mitigate the spread of the deadly disease, Romero, who saw action for the PH polo team in last year’s Southeast Asian Games, is confident in the leadership of the pro league and the all-out support of the team owners.

“Under the leadership of Chair Ricky Vargas and Commissioner Willie Marcial, the PBA has exhausted everything to make the bubble-type concept safe for everyone,” said Romero.

Romero noted that PBA players, including his Batang Pier squad, are already eager to get back into action after the league was forced to a halt last March because of the health crisis.

The 48-year-old Romero said it’s time for the country’s national pastime to bounce back.

“We need to get up slowly but surely,” added the former amateur basketball godfather.