GAB reminds Calvin Abueva of his probationary status

The Games and Amusements Board (GAB) issued a strong reminder to new Magnolia recruit Calvin Abueva regarding his probationary status with the government’s regulatory body for professional sports.

GAB chairman Baham Mitra stressed that the 33-year old Abueva, who was acquired by the Hotshots last week from Phoenix Super LPG, is still under the 6-month probation period regardless of what team he plays for.

“Even if he (Abueva) has transferred to a different team, as a professional athlete licensed by GAB, he still needs to honor what has been agreed upon and his commitment to the Board which was the basis of the reinstatement,” Mitra said in a statement.

“He is a professional athlete and the youth look up to him. We expect him to set an example to the younger generation,” he added.

Mitra disclosed that he reached out to Magnolia team manager Alvin Patrimonio to inform him of the conditions that were set forth prior to the lifting of Abueva’s suspension.

While the 2nd overall pick of the 2012 draft was able to complete his mandatory monitoring sessions for December, he, however, failed to attend the sessions for January due to ‘pressing family matters’.

GAB said that the responsibility now falls on Magnolia management, led by Patrimonio and head coach Chito Victolero, to ensure that Abueva will be provided with the necessary support that he needs to cope with the demands warranted by his professional practice as an athlete.