He said officials of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas will seek the pro league’s approval to allow the Nationals to see action as a regular participant, not just in the Reinforced Conference which is set to start late next month.

This aspect in the national five’s preparation will be discussed when the PBA team owners meet on Jan. 25.

“We want to play both conferences in the PBA,” said Toroman during yesterday’s PSA Forum at Shakey’s UN Avenue. “But it will depend on the decision of the league.”

Toroman said Smart Gilas will use both tournaments for its buildup for the Fiba Asia Championship in Wuhan, China, on Sept. 15 to 24 and as an opportunity to identify the PBA players that they will need to reinforce the team.

The champion of the Fiba Asia Championship will qualify to the 2012 London Olympics.

“If we join both conferences, we will not go anywhere,” Toroman said during the public sports forum sponsored by Shakey’s, Pagcor and Outlast Battery.

“But if they allow us to play only one conference, we will have our training camp in Turkey and Serbia.”

Under the revived three-conference format, the next two tournaments after the current Philippine Cup will feature foreign reinforcements.

“The earlier we get the three to four players that we need, the more useful it will be for us,” said Toroman, stressing that the PBA players chosen should join the Nationals full-time for at least three months.

Toroman acknowledged the contribution of the league in allowing Asi Taulava, Solomon Mercado and Kelly Williams to join Smart Gilas in the recent Asian Games.

June Navarro, Phil. Daily Inquirer