PBA referee tests positive for COVID-19, games to push through

FILE – The Tropang Giga and Aces were the first ones to experience playing in a fanless venue as the PBA rebooted in earnest with a TNT win over Alaska. —DENISON REY A. DALUPANG

MANILA, Philippines — A PBA referee has tested positive for COVID-19, the league said Wednesday.

In a statement, the PBA said the referee, who is asymptomatic, was tested on Monday along with 27 others, “whose tests all came out negative” on Tuesday night.

“The person is now under quarantine at the Athlete’s Village while his 1st and 2nd layer contacts are under strict isolation,” the statement read.

“The suspect case will be tested today and will be under strict observation. The person’s 1st and 2nd layer contacts, meanwhile, will be retested on October 24 – Saturday.”

The league assured no protocol has been breached and that the games will go on as scheduled with NorthPort taking on NLEX later at 4 p.m. while Phoenix clashes with Barangay Ginebra in the main game at 6:45 p.m.

However, other activities such as swimming and jogging and use of the gym have been temporarily prohibited to give way to sanitation.

With its first positive infection in the bubble, the PBA will be more stringent in implementing its health and safety guidelines.

“Rest assured that the safety and security of all is our paramount concern. Routine disinfection, wearing of masks, face shields and social/physical distancing are strictly being implemented, as well as an effective contact tracing procedure is in place to maintain the safety and integrity of the bubble.”