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The PBA takes steps to make changes by considering the conflicting COVID-19 test results for one of its referees.
The league is proceeding with additional steps to ensure the safety of everyone involved in trying to finish the 2020 season. Here’s everything we know so far about the case.
Has the referee been isolated?
Yes. In an earlier statement, the league said the referee was isolated at the Athletes’ Village in Capas, Tarlac and was re-examined Wednesday afternoon.
What are the test results?
Deputy Commissioner Eric Castro told ESPN5.com’s Carlo Pamintuan that the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) reported to the league on Tuesday that “one of our game officials tested positive … So we immediately did the necessary protocols, such as contact tracing “.
Castro confirmed that the referee officiated the Blackwater-Alaska game Tuesday night. The referee, however, produced a negative antigen test on Tarlac on Wednesday afternoon. The league is still awaiting the results of the swabs, which will take up to five days.
“Our medical experts, like PBA medical consultant Dr. Raul Canlas, and those from DOH and CDC, tell us that it could be a false positive,” Commissioner Willie Marcial said in Filipino on Wednesday night. “More than 300 delegates who entered the bubble tested negative and he was the only one who tested positive.”
Has the referee tested positive in previous tests?
No. Tuesday’s result was his fourth test. The league said it had two tests before entering Clark and another two inside the bubble, all of which came out negative.
“We don’t know how he tested positive because he was the only one to do so among 28 other tests taken at the same time. Even doctors are wondering how it happened.”
Did the referee come into contact with other people?
Yes. The league said there are eight first and second layer contacts currently under strict isolation and that they will be reevaluated Oct. 24. The referees you worked with on Tuesday are included.
How did the referee test positive? Did you violate any protocol?
The PBA said no protocols have been violated. But the league’s medical team, CDC officials and the Department of Health are weighing the risks.
Will it be quarantined?
Yes. The referee will remain in strict quarantine for 14 days in the Athletes’ Village.
Will the games continue?
Yes. The CDC has authorized the PBA to continue with its Philippine Cup schedule and will implement stricter measures.
Have other measures been taken?
Other activities at the Quest Hotel, including swimming, gym use and jogging, are temporarily suspended until Thursday, the league said. Meanwhile, the movement of officials, players, media and everyone else within the bubble is also restricted.
Will those present in the Blackwater-Alaska game be retested?
Yes. Marcial, as well as Blackwater assistant coach Pat Aquino, confirmed that all Aces and Elite players, coaches and staff will be tested Thursday morning at 9 a.m.
