A super storm in the middle of a pandemic? Away from families, PBA players and coaches pray for the sun

SMART CLARK GIGA CITY – The challenges brought by the coronavirus pandemic are already a test of character for the people inside the PBA bubble.

But being away from family with a raging super typhoon that threatens to split Luzon in half is a heartbreak for the delegation that is safely hidden at the Quest Hotel in Pampanga.

PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial admitted that it is very difficult to be away from loved ones during these difficult times when the risk of getting sick from the virus is compounded by a natural calamity.

“That is really difficult. Parang OFW. But we have to do it because it is our job. As I said, this is not only for us, not only for our family but also for our fans ”, said Marcial to the Newsletter time.

The league chief insisted that going forward with the bubble is already a sacrifice that the 12 teams and the rest of the delegation have to make for a greater cause.

Marcial hopes the Philippine Cup will not run into trouble again as they seek to offer something positive for those affected by the Super Typhoon Rolly.

After complying with new IATF protocols, the bubble conference will resume on Tuesday, two days after Rolly, the world’s strongest typhoon so far this year, made landfall for the first time in Bato, Catanduanes.

Like Marcial, players and coaches have checked on their families at home as Rolly continued to hit Luzon on Sunday, driving strong winds and torrential rain in his path.

“Actually, I’m more concerned about my family in Manila and my girlfriend’s (Pau Fajardo) family at CamSur (Camarines Sur),” said Barangay Geneva escort Scottie Thompson.

“Praying for my girlfriend’s family and all CamSur people to be safe,” he added.

Camarines Sur and the rest of the Bicol Region were one of the hardest hits, with Signal No. 5 rising in the area early Sunday, while Metro Manila was put under Signal No. 4.

“I call (my family). This morning I was still talking to them and of course I also ordered and we also have to greet the kids and the venue, ”said Magnolia head coach Chito Victolero, who resides in Bulacan, who was under signal No. 4 in just a moment.

“From time to time I call them to say hello to their situation there,” Victolero added.

Alaskan mentor Jeff Cariaso did the same with his wife Erika Padilla and their two children.

“I made sure they had food, groceries, water and that they just stayed home,” she said.

“I pray that everyone is safe and no one is hurt.”

Fortunately, the PBA bubble was not greatly affected as only the pool and running area at Quest Hotel closed due to light rain.

Practice resumed at the University of Angels Foundation as teams prepare for the revised knockout round schedule featuring five quad headers, two triple headers and two double headers from November 3-11.