After a slight delay, the Philippines Football League sponsored by Qatar Airways will commence on Wednesday at the PFF National Training Center in Cavite.
Instead of a triple-header, two fixtures will take place. United City Football Club takes on the Azkals Development Team at 4:30 PM. Kaya FC-Iloilo battles Maharlika Manila afterwards at 8:00 PM.
It was been a long road coming for the organizers of the league’s 2020 bubble season. To finally see it come to fruition is an achievement in itself for all stakeholders involved. Last Sunday’s matches were ultimately cancelled due to the onset of Typhoon Quinta and the positive results of certain individuals from the league’s initial RT-PCR testing last Saturday.
“We are happy to announce the kickoff of the 2020 PFL season on Wednesday,” said Philippine Football Federation president Mariano Araneta on Sunday night.
“This is a big moment for everyone in the football community. We appreciate the collective effort from the PFF, the clubs, and most importantly, the Games and Amusements Board and the city government of Santa Rosa, Laguna.”
Alongside the news that the games will finally commence barring any more unforeseen circumstances, the league announced that every person involved this season within the Seda Nuvali bubble in Santa Rosa, Laguna, gained negative results after being subjected to antigen tests.
“PFF and league officials appreciate the quick implementation of health protocols in Seda Nuvali and are grateful for the guidance and support of GAB Chairman Baham Mitra and Santa Rosa Mayor Hon. Arlene Arcillas,” said the statement.
The two clubs that had a total of nine individuals testing positive for COVID-19 shall be put through antigen tests every other day while the said method will also apply for other clubs before matches.
“All clubs will strictly adhere to health and safety protocols prescribed for the league while staying in Seda Nuvali and playing matches at PFF National Training Center in Carmona, Cavite. League coordination with the city government of Sta. Rosa, Laguna, and the municipal government of Carmona, Cavite will also continue.”
