Bolts start Ilocos training today

MANILA, Philippines — Early bird Meralco hopes to lead by example as it opens its training camp in Ilocos Norte today.

The Bolts took advantage of the Inter-Agency Task Force approval of PBA scrimmages and the offer of Ilocos Norte Gov. Matthew Manotoc to start their workouts the soonest possible time.

Upon completion of the requirements, coach Norman Black and his troops packed their bags yesterday and headed to Ilocos Norte, where they will be based for a 10-day training under a “controlled bubble” setup.

The Meralco Bolts will be sweating it out at the Laoag Centennial Arena, which hosted official PBA events before, while staying at Fort Ilocandia Resort and Hotel.

“As the first PBA team to resume practices, our goal is to lead the way and show how sports and safety can go hand in hand,” said the squad.

Meralco was the first to complete the two RT-PCR tests required prior to training and get local government unit (LGU) clearance for the endeavor.

The Bolts brought 16 players led by Chris Newsome, Allein Maliksi, Cliff Hodge, Raymond Almazan, Reynel Hugnatan, Noy Baclao, trade acquisition Mac Belo, and sophomore Aaron Black.

After Ilocos, the Philippine Cup bubble semifinalists are looking to return to their “home gym” at the Meralco Complex in Pasig for the remainder of the pre-season practices