Even though he will not be able to join his fellow Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) players in their return to practice a few weeks from now, six-time league Most Valuable Player winner and Cebuano behemoth June Mar Fajardo is encouraging them to keep their heads up and be optimistic with the plans the league has laid out.

The PBA is set to restart non-scrimmage practices in small groups after the release of the joint administrative order that was green lit by the Games and Amusements Board (GAB), the Department of Health (DOH) and the Philippine Sports Commissioner (PSC).

However, as excited as the players are about the chance to return to the grind, the tinge of nervousness regarding the likelihood of contracting the dreaded COVID-19 remains. The league though, has installed very strict guidelines and protocols to ensure the players’ and staff’s safety. In addition, team owners have also stepped up and said that they would take care of all the expenses should a player contract the virus.

Fajardo, who is currently recovering from a leg injury that will sideline him for the rest of the season, said they all need to stay positive with the recent developments.

“Negative na nga yung nangyayari sa mundo tapos negative pa approach natin, mas lalong sasama. So kailangan tignan na lang yung positive side,” said Fajardo, during an episode of Sports Page on TV5.

Although he won’t be there in person with this teammates, Fajardo shared that he’ll be supporting them in every way he can as he tries to regain his strength for an eventual return to the San Miguel Beermen and Gilas Pilipinas. (JNP)