Ginebra’s Caguioa begs off from All-Star games

BORACAY, Aklan, Philippines — Thousands of fans voted for Mark Caguioa to play in the 2011 PBA Hala Bola All-Star game.

Too bad, they won’t see the Barangay Ginebra spitfire spark the North All-Stars here in sunny Boracay.

The PBA Commissioner’s Office confirmed on Wednesday Caguioa’s decision to skip the All Star, the second time in his career after begging off during the 2006 edition in Cagayan de Oro.

Caguioa, who is still in Los Angeles, informed the league of his absence, citing family problems.

Voted by fans to start for the North squad in the All-Star game at the Boracay Convention Center on Sunday, Caguioa would have been in his sixth all-star appearance.

He’s expected to return next week.

In 2006, Caguioa cited injuries for skipping the event and made it known through his agent, Danny Espiritu. He was fined by the league.

PBA media bureau chief Willie Marcial said Ginebra team official and SMC’s basketball operation’s chief Robert Non informed the league on Caguioa’s status on Wednesday and added Commissioner Chito Salud would hand down a decision on Thursday.

“We don’t know yet if he’ll be sanctioned. The reason should be valid for him to escape penalty,” said Marcial. “The commissioner will look into the matter first before making a decision.”

Caguioa was supposed to play alongside Ginebra teammate Willie Miller for the North side, along with Derby Ace’s Marc Pingris and Kerby Raymundo and reigning All-Star MVP Gabe Norwood of Rain Or Shine.