The PBA board of governors finally reached an accord.
The opposing blocs in the board resolved their standoff regarding the tenure of league commissioner Chito Narvasa, in the process unifying the league shortly before the inaugurals of the 43rd PBA season.
Ricky Vargas succeeded GlobalPort owner Mikee Romero as the league chairman, and the MVP/PLDT Group top official did the honor in declaring the new season open during the opening rites.
As the board reunited, Narvasa tendered his resignation as the league's ninth commissioner. Subsequently, the board appointed PBA external affairs and media bureau chief Willie Marcial as officer in charge.
"We're stronger, and we look forward to a fruitful 43rd season," said Vargas, facing the sports media with all the other members of the PBA board.
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Vargas cited Barangay Ginebra's Alfrancis Chua, Kia's Bobby Rosales, TNT KaTropa's Patrick Gregorio and Meralco's Al Panlilio for their crucial contribution in breaking the impasse.
"Alfrancis Chua was always there looking for the solution, Bobby Rosales never gave up, Al Panlilio was always beside me as we worked for the resolution and Pato Gregorio used his magic to reach an agreement between two parties," Vargas pointed out.
"We reached out to commissioner Narvasa. We made amends for things that needed to be clarified and worked out on his personal hurt in the process," said Vargas.
"As a result, he submitted his resignation, thanking the PBA, and the PBA thanking him for his contribution to the league," Vargas added.
Narvasa, however, is staying in office until Dec. 31 to help the league in its transition period.
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To help resolve the problem, Vargas agreed to reassume the league chairmanship he occupied in 2010.
"I guess you're wondering why I'm here. I was gone for seven years. NLEX graciously gave up its turn and swapped with TNT its turn in the succession," said Vargas.
NLEX was supposed to succeed GlobalPort.
