PFF to focus on ensuring safety of players as IATF approves return to practice

The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) welcomes the decision of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging and Infectious Disease (IATF) to allow the resumption of practice for basketball and football amid the community quarantines.

In an advisory posted on the PFF's website Friday, the football federation said its officials "happily received the latest development on the resumption of professional sports in the country."

According to the protocol approved by the IATF, the PFF said only a maximum of ten people are allowed in training sessions and there is a 30 minute interval in between sessions.

“We thank both IATF and GAB, headed by Chairman Abaraham Mitra, for their approval in ensuring that professional sports may push through despite the ongoing pandemic,” PFF president Mariano Araneta, Jr. said in a statement.

The PFF chief said they will also "ensure the health and safety of the players, as we prepare for the eventual start of training of PFL teams.”

The federation added they will inform the teams of the guidelines needed to be observed during training.

Last Friday, Malacañang announced the IATF's approval of the request of the Philippine Basketball Association and football associations to resume training.

The Philippine Basketball Association on its part hopes to restart its 45th season by September. — LA, GMA News