The PBA took a major step towards a season launch as the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) approved its request to hold scrimmages in areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) and modified general community quarantine (MGCQ).

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque announced the news in a press briefing on Friday, May 7, noting the health protocols for the scrimmages are subject to the approval of the Games and Amusements Board.

The PBA eyed Batangas City as potential training spot, with the capital committing the Batangas City Coliseum and Batangas State University Gym as scrimmage and practice venues.

Batangas is under GCQ until May 31.

Originally, scrimmages were allowed only in areas under MGCQ.

PBA commissioner Willie Marcial said other teams are looking at Laoag City and Pampanga as potential training sites.

The IATF also gave the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas the green light to host the third and final window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers in a bubble setting in Clark, Pampnga in June. – Rappler.com