Farm Fresh team owner Frank Lao appealed to the Premier Volleyball League to allow Filipino-American player Alohi Robins-Hardy play in the upcoming PVL: 2024-25 All-Filipino Conference that will commence on November 9.
In a statement released on Thursday, Lao specifically mentioned having a 'gentleman's agreement' with PVL President Ricky Palou that Robins-Hardy can play, provided that she presents a valid Philippine passport.
"After the PVL draft, there was an agreement between me and Mr. Palou that Alohi can play provided that she presents a valid Philippine passport. That's why I was shocked to learn that she can't play unless she joins the PVL draft," Lao said.
The statement also stated that Palou met with Strong Group Athletics (SGA) executives to admit his "oversight" regarding Robins-Hardy's eligibility status.
Furthermore, Palou suggested letting other teams decide on Robins-Hardy's eligibility, with the condition that SGA obtains a majority of team owners or their representatives to sign a "Letter of No Objection."
Lao reportedly garnered support from five teams—Zus Coffee, Galeries Tower, PLDT, Petro Gazz, and Cherry Tiggo. However, Palou abruptly halted the effort, reiterating that Robins-Hardy would not be permitted to play unless she participates in the PVL draft.
The first PVL draft took place in July, designed to create equal opportunities for teams in player selection and reduce the chance of bidding wars.
In a separate statement, the PVL clarified that athletes will only be eligible to play if they meet the league's requirements, which include holding a valid Philippine passport and participating in the draft process scheduled for June of next year.
"On May 1, 2024, the league issued a memorandum to all member teams outlining the free agent rules and draft guidelines, specifying that "All players who wish to play in the PVL, but have not playes in the league since its professional status began in 2021 until the first conference of 2024, must apply and go through the draft process," the statement read.
The much-anticipated PVL 2024-25 All-Filipino Conference begins today at the PhilSports Arena, with thrilling matchups lined up: Galeries Tower faces Akari, followed by Petro Gazz taking on Choco Mucho.
