Phoenix to impose fine on Abueva after spotted playing ‘ligang labas’

FILE: “Habang suspendido si the beast Calvin Abueva nag import muna dito sa aming Brgy.San Isidro .Montalban Rizal.” (Photo: Nachor Jandayan Deimos/Facebook)

After being spotted playing for “an unsanctioned ‘ligang labas’ game” in Montalban, Rizal for Team San Isidro by numerous netizens who posted images and videos that circulated online amidst his indefinite suspension in the Philippine Basketball Association, 31-year old Fuel Masters’ forward Calvin Abueva is now facing a fine from the Phoenix Pulse management.

The team released a statement last Monday, July 22, stating that “The Phoenix Pulse Fuel Masters are deeply disappointed upon learning of Calvin Abueva’s participation in an unsanctioned ‘ligang labas’ game in Montalban, Rizal,” and confirming, “An internal fine will be imposed on him for these actions. Any further incidents will be dealt with more severity.”

Despite “The Beast” still awaiting the time frame of his suspension, he has written a letter of apology to the office of PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial, as he violated the professional league’s rule stating that he cannot participate in any other tournament. 

The Fuel Masters’ statement continued, “The team has spoken to Calvin previously and agreed that the cager will use this idle time to reflect on his character while working out on his own both physically and mentally to ready himself for his eventual return once his suspension is lifted,” concluding, “This news is not only breach to team policies and rules, but also a stark contrast of how we wish to exude our players, especially Calvin.”

The controversial player has not seen action in the league since Marcial imposed the punishment, which also included a P70,000 fine, last June 4 due to inappropriate behavior. With this further offense, the Games and Amusement Board is currently evaluating whether or not to clear Abueva to continue to be part of Fuel Masters as his mother team has filed an appeal.