MANILA – The Philippines Football League (PFL) is looking to have the 2021 season by Oct. 27 in a closed circuit setup (home-venue-home) at the PFF National Training Center in Carmona, Cavite.
Philippine Football Federation (PFF) general secretary Atty. Edwin Gastanes, however, said prerequisites agreed upon during their meeting last week must be met for the season to start.
“PFF is committed to having the PFL 2021 season this year when conditions permit,” said Gastanes. “We understand how also important the league is for the clubs, sponsors, and football fans.”
“First off, Carmona, Cavite must be under general community quarantine or its equivalent by October 16 and there must be six confirmed clubs for the season to begin,” he added.
Currently, seven teams are looking to take part in reigning champions United City, Kaya-Iloilo, the Azkals Development Team, Stallion Laguna, Maharlika Manila, Mendiola 1991 and Dynamic Herb Cebu.
Gastanes further said the participating football clubs are encouraged to ensure players are match-fit upon the targeted kick-off date.
In addition, clubs must provide the league with their proposed accommodation venues for the bubble setup, with provisions for health and safety protocols.
“The PFL season 2021 kickoff remains a primary objective,” PFL commissioner Coco Torre said. “The staging of the season will help preserve the livelihood of the players, staff, officials and determine the League Standings based on sporting merit.”
The PFL 2021 season was originally set to start on Aug. 21 but was postponed with the National Capital Region placed under enhanced community quarantine.
The PFF then decided to move the opening to Sept. 25 but the coronavirus situation still made it impossible to conduct games./PN