The Blackwater player who initially tested positive for COVID-19 had yielded negative results following his antigen and RT-PCR re-tests Sunday, the PBA announced on Monday morning.
“We would like to report that the RT-PCR test taken by the Blackwater player Sunday yielded a NEGATIVE result. He also tested negative on antigen yesterday,” the league said in a statement.
This is what the league had expected since the referee who was first classified as a probable case last Wednesday became cleared after returning with negative results after the re-tests using both testing methods.
“It’s very similar and we’re hoping to get the same results,” said PBA deputy commissioner Eric Castro in a presser Sunday where Dr. Raul Canlas also stressed that the referee “was negative the whole time.”
But as with that referee, the player will have to remain in quarantine as a precautionary measure, the league said. They are currently at the Athletes’ Village in Capas, Tarlac for such.
This development will surely allow those inside the bubble in Clark to breathe a sigh of relief even for a bit after what has been a whirlwind of a week. The league, though, assured that the bubble will not burst.
“The PBA bubble remains intact and has not been breached,” said the PBA. “Nevertheless, we urge all participants to be extra cautious and strictly follow the protocols set for them inside the bubble.”
