Pilipinas VisMin Super Cup has tapped the services of a revered figure in the local sports scene for guidance in its bid to promote Southern hoops further.
COO Rocky Chan announced Saturday that former Philippine Basketball League (PBL) commissioner Chino Trinidad will be the league’s consultant.
“I’d like to introduce former PBL commissioner Chino Trinidad as our official consultant for Pilipinas VisMin Super Cup,” the amiable executive said in the One Chooks-to-Go virtual press conference.
This marks the return of the long-time sportsman into the basketball scene after over a decade, or since serving as PBL chief.
Trinidad served as the defunct amateur league’s commish from 2000 to 2010. He was its longest serving commissioner until his resignation.
Trinidad said that he initially felt reluctant when offered the role. Then he saw the controversial game between Siquijor and Lapu-Lapu City marred by botched free throws and missed wide-open lay-ups.
For him, no one should disrespect the game of basketball in any way, thus his acceptance of the consultantship for the Chooks-backed league.
“Ayoko nang bumalik sa Philippine basketball, I’ve had my share. Siguro naman nakatulong na ako, and I want a simple, quiet life,” he said.
“Pero ‘pag may gumagawa ng katarantaduhan sa basketball, a game that we all love, na itataya natin ang buhay natin… Hindi pwedeng palipasin ‘tong mga ganitong bagay. And that is one reason why I am back.”
However, Trinidad made it clear that he only plans to assume the role for a limited time, since he has other obligations to fulfill.
“Well, back, maybe in a temporary manner or interim because I do not want to do this long-term. Marami rin po akong gawain,” said the veteran sports reporter.
“But right now, kung malilinis at matutulungang linisin ang Philippine basketball, para sa mga taong gustong sirain ito… That will be one major reason why my face is back dito sa basketball scene.”
