Should Starhorse Trust Terrafirma?
With the reported acquisition of the Terrafirma Dyip franchise by Starhorse Shipping Lines Inc., the PBA landscape is set for a shake-up. However, the big question remains: Can Starhorse trust Terrafirma to honor its commitments and keep the remaining key players until the sale is finalized?
Jackson Chua, the owner of Starhorse Basilan, is hopeful that Terrafirma will stay true to its word. In a conversation with SPIN.ph, Chua revealed that there is already a verbal agreement in place to prevent any further player movements while the sale is in process.
“Meron na kaming initial verbal agreement (with Terrafirma) na wala nang mangyayaring movement kasi nasa transaction process na kami. So, we believe that,” said Chua, who also owns the Red Dynasty Seafoods Restaurant.
Chua understands the concerns of fans, particularly regarding the potential departure of key players. “Ang concerns ng fans is if mawawala ang remaining key players ng team. Mahihirapan kami bumuo, wala ka nang trade asset, so sa draft ka aasa, ilang taon yun? And they assured that,” he stated.
Chua’s worries are not unfounded. Rumors have been circulating that teams, including San Miguel, are eyeing Terrafirma’s young frontcourt players, Kemark Cariño and Louie Sangalang, to strengthen their roster. There’s also speculation about Terrence Romeo being part of the deal. If Terrafirma suddenly makes moves before the sale is approved, it could severely limit Starhorse’s ability to build a competitive team.
Will Terrafirma Keep Its Word?
While Chua remains optimistic, history suggests caution. Terrafirma has long been known for trading away its top talent, often benefiting the league’s powerhouse teams. Fans have criticized the team’s handling of past stars like CJ Perez, Isaac Go, and Roosevelt Adams, who were all dealt away before reaching their full potential with the franchise.
The final approval of the sale still rests in the hands of the PBA Board of Governors, which requires a two-thirds majority vote. Chua confirmed that all necessary documents have been submitted, including the letter of intent and terms of payment. “Nag-usap na kami ng Terrafirma sa terms of payment, naka-usap ko na rin ang PBA at nakapagpasa na kami ng necessary documents to support yung application namin. May letter of intent na rin kami. Sana i-approve nila kasi ready na kami.”
Despite concerns that NorthPort may exercise the 'lockout clause' to block the acquisition, Chua clarified that there should be no conflict. “Ang concern kasi ata is 'yung conflict with Northport,” he said. “[Pero] hindi naman kami direct competitor ng Northport kasi sila port and docking ng ship, kami shipping. So, wala dapat conflict dun.”
A Test of Trust
For Starhorse, this acquisition is an opportunity to bring fresh energy to the league and potentially establish itself as a serious contender. However, it all depends on whether Terrafirma will honor its word. If Terrafirma stays true to the agreement, Starhorse will inherit a roster that includes not only the upcoming No. 1 draft pick but also promising talents like Cariño and possibly even Romeo.
Let’s hope that Terrafirma does not pull any last-minute moves and allows Starhorse to take over with the assets intact. If the PBA Board approves the sale, this could mark a turning point for the league. However, if Strong Group Athletics is also serious about entering the PBA, it would be even better for the league to welcome it as the 13th team, increasing the number of independent teams to five.
For now, all we can do is wait and see if Terrafirma truly keeps its promises.
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