PVL Cancels Santiago, Isabela On Tour Stop Amid Tropical Depression Maymay

The Premier Volleyball League (PVL) has canceled its scheduled On Tour games in Santiago, Isabela, on August 8 due to the impact of Tropical Depression Maymay (international name Kujira). The league cited safety concerns for fans, athletes, team personnel, officials, and all involved as the primary reason for the cancellation. Travel disruptions, including flight cancellations to Isabela since Thursday, also influenced the decision.

The affected matches included a clash between unbeaten ZUS Coffee and defending champion PLDT, which was set to conclude ZUS Coffee’s preseason run. Additionally, Creamline and Capital1 were slated to headline the game day. All tickets purchased for the canceled matches will be refunded, according to the league.

PVL president Ricky Palou expressed regret over disappointing fans in Santiago City and the wider Isabela province who were anticipating the games. He emphasized that the safety of everyone involved must take precedence over the event. Palou also thanked fans for their understanding and support during this challenging situation.

Despite the cancellation, Palou reaffirmed the league’s commitment to bringing PVL action to Santiago City. He assured fans that the league intends to fulfill its promise by returning during the upcoming PVL All-Filipino Conference. The cancellation was described as a necessary response to circumstances beyond the league’s control.

The PVL On Tour preseason has already completed four stops, including Ilagan City in Isabela, Batangas City, Vigan in Ilocos Sur, and Polomolok in South Cotabato. The recent stop in Polomolok attracted a large crowd, with spectators even spilling into the town plaza where a giant screen was set up to allow continued viewing of the games.

Looking ahead, the PVL On Tour has two remaining stops scheduled. The next leg will be held in Lanao del Norte, featuring matches such as Nxled versus Farm Fresh and PLDT against Akari. The final stop is planned for Victorias City on August 22, where Capital1 will face Farm Fresh, followed by Creamline versus Galeries Tower to conclude the tour.

The PVL On Tour serves as a preseason exhibition series designed to bring volleyball action to various provinces across the Philippines. The league has adapted its format this year to focus on player development and fan engagement, foregoing an overall championship in favor of weekly exhibition matches with monetary incentives for winning teams. The cancellation in Santiago is a setback but the league’s plans to continue the tour remain intact.