South Korea became the first foreign squad to arrive in Clark, Pampanga for the third and final window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers, with other teams set to follow.

Korea checked in at the Quest Hotel on Sunday, June 13 just before Gilas Pilipinas also entered the Clark bubble.

China, Japan, and Indonesia will arrive later on Sunday, while Chinese Taipei will land in the country on Monday, June 14.

With its first game in the final window not happening until June 19, Thailand will be the last team to join the bubble on June 16.

Strict protocols have been put in place to secure the safety of Gilas Pilipinas and the six foreign teams participating in the Clark qualifiers, which will run from June 16 to 20.

Teams underwent three RT-PCR tests within 12 days before their departure from their respective countries.

They will be tested again upon arrival and midway through the tournament for a minimum of five RT-PCR tests.

In case a player tests positive for the coronavirus, he will remain in isolation in his room.

“They will be tested again a day after to see if they are positive or negative,” said Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas director of operations Butch Antonio.

“Should another positive result come out, we will be conferring with [our medical staff]. We also have a bio-security group here.”

Currently at the top of Group A, Gilas Pilipinas needs to win at least one of its last three games to clinch an Asia Cup berth.

The Philippines will face Korea on June 16 and 20 and Indonesia on June 18. – Rappler.com