PBA plans to go east with Antipolo, Pasig eyed as possible venues

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is seriously considering Antipolo or Pasig as possible venues for the virus-hit Season 46 in late June or early July.

League commissioner Willie Marcial told GMA News Online that the upcoming Philippine Cup could be staged at the Ynares Sports Center in Antipolo or Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City, both of which are just drive away from Manila.

"We're still looking at Antipolo or Pasig so we're hoping that everything gets better in order to secure the permission from the government," Marcial said in a mix of English and Filipino.

"We do not need a large venue because for sure, we can't still accommodate fans," he added.

Marcial said he's in constant discussion with former Antipolo City Mayor Jun Ynares for the possible use of the sports center, which has been a regular venue for PBA games before.

"I'm talking with him (Ynares) regarding the matter and he's OK with it."

The commissioner added that they will first need to present to the IATF and Games and Amusements Board (GAB) their plans for the season before hitting the ground running.

Currently, teams have started with their scrimmages in Batangas, Ilocos Norte, and Clark.

"That's why we are hoping the scrimmages will be successful so that we can get the green light from the IATF to begin the season," Marcial said.

—MGP, GMA News