THE Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) took one of the major steps toward its return next month following Wednesday’s online orientation conducted by the Games and Amusements Board (GAB) with representatives of 20 of the 22 teams taking part in the Chooks-to-Go MPBL Invitational Tournament set from December 11 to 23, 2021.
Representatives from Negros Muscovados, Biñan City-Laguna Krah Heroes, Caloocan Supremos, Bicol Volcanoes-LCC Malls, Rizal Golden Coolers-Xentro Mall, Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards, Imus Bandera, FSD Makati Blazers, Sarangani Marlins, GenSan Warriors, Bacolod, Marikina Shoemasters, Iloilo Royals, Muntinlupa Cagers, Manila Stars, Go for Gold-San Juan Knights, Pasig-Sta. Lucia Realtors, Valenzuela Classics, Mindoro Tamaraws, Bulacan Kuyas and Jumbo Plastic-Basilan attended the meeting.
“We are happy that GAB was able to meet and orient the team owners about our mandate relative to GAB’s supervisory and regulatory function over the conduct of professional sports such as basketball,” GAB Pro Sports Division chief June Bautista said.
The GAB conveyed to the teams the need to license players, officials and personnel directly involved in the game and informed the stakeholders about the duties and responsibilities of professional athletes and sports officials.
GAB also gave leeway to the players who have already secured their licenses after joining the Pilipinas VisMin Super Cup and National Basketball League-Pilipinas.
The professional sports regulatory agency also allowed a free renewal of expired licenses until after the tournament.
“We are grateful that through this orientation and dialogue we were given the opportunity to discuss and address their concerns and inquiries,” Pro Sports Division Assistant chief Jackie Lou Ornido said. “The GAB is always there to assist and we look forward to working together with the league for the safety and welfare of our athletes and all our stakeholders.”