MANILA, Philippines – The PBA had its opening ceremonies delayed due to Typhoon Lando. Now the league wants to help others affected by the storm.
According to a press release, the Philippine Basketball Association will donate proceeds from its 41st season opener on Wednesday, October 21 at the Mall of Asia Arena to victims of the storm.
“Proceeds of our season opener will be donated to the victims of tropical storm Lando,” said PBA chairman Robert Non on Monday, October 19 shortly after a special board meeting to iron out details of the postponed opening ceremonies.
(READ: PBA postpones season opening due to Tyhpoon Lando)
“We in the PBA feel for our countrymen who have been affected by the storm. On this note I would like to encourage our basketball fans to come and watch our season opener on Wednesday. You will not just enjoy the games, you will also be helping our kababayans (countrymen) in need,” Non said.
Asia’s first play-for-pay league will mark its 41st season with simple opening rites starting at 5 pm followed by a lone game between the Star Hotshots and the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters at 7 pm.
The PBA season opener was originally scheduled Sunday, October 18 but bad weather conditions due to Typhoon Lando (international name Koppu) forced league commissioner Chito Narvasa to postpone the affair.
“Wednesday’s opener will be something different. Because everyone – from league officials to the players down to the fans – will come there with a purpose and that is to help,” Non said.
Tickets bought for Sunday will not be honored at the Mall of Asia Arena but ticket holders can get a refund at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. – Rappler.com