DESPITE the series of earthquakes that hit Mindanao areas recently, the Magnolia Hotshots Pambansang Manok and Talk N' Text Katropa are set to arrive today, November 15, for their 2019 PBA Governors’ Cup game tomorrow, November 16, at 5 p.m. at the University of Southeastern Philippines (Usep) Gym in Davao City.
Both teams last played at Usep Gym in 2014 where the game went into triple overtime.
Local organizer Arkiquest chairman Hector Magno, in yesterday's Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) Forum at The Annex of SM City Davao, said everything is set for the highly-anticipated game from security forces, medical team and the safety of the venue.
He said Usep Gym was inspected twice by the City Engineer's Office (CEO) and Office of the City Building Official (Ocbo). During the first inspection, a few cracks on the facility's ceiling were seen but it was repaired and repainted, thus, the granting of the certificate from the CEO and Ocbo.
"I have with me the green color (clearance inspection certificate), proving that the venue is safe. The structural (integrity) is stable and so is the building," Magno said, adding that the Usep Gym is cooler now than before.
Arkiquest logistics head Rameses Tancontian, for his part, said, "Kining teams jud maoy ginagukod. Mas bugnaw karon, mas nindot, walay problema sa building (These two teams are really sought after. There's no problem with the venue, it is cooler and looks better)."
Meanwhile, Neil Pagcaliwagan said the courtside (1,500) and ringside (1,200) tickets are fast running out as of yesterday but more general admission (P600) tickets are still available.
He said that the bulk of PBA fans usually flock ticket outlets a day before of during the day of the game.
Very tight security will be implemented during the event.
Proceeds will benefit the organization that ABS-CBN will be choosing.
Arkiquest built classrooms to indigent student in Barangay Salumay in Marilog District before and sponsors indigent students who are interested in Architecture as the group is an association of Davao architects. Some of its scholars have graduated and also passed the board exam.