MANILA, Philippines — Air21 has allowed the contract of coach Yeng Guiao to expire last Dec. 31 but has not made any announcement whether it plans to re-sign the veteran coach who also serves as vice governor of Pampanga.

Air21 team manager Allan Gregorio was to meet the team’s alternate governor Johan Ramos and team owner Bert Lina Wednesday night to discuss Guiao’s contract but hinted it might be extended.

“Actually our proposal is for two conferences or rest of the season so we can complete our overall evaluation on coach Yeng,” Gregorio said. “Because it will be unfair if we’ll evaluate him after just one conference this season.

Another meeting will be held late Thursday between the management and Guiao.

The final decision, according to Gregorio, will come from Lina although former team manager and PBA chairman Lito Alvarez, who is now the head of the Bureau of Customs, will also help in the assessment.

Alvarez, who tapped Guiao after he left Red Bull in 2008, was not available for comment.

The 51-year-old Guiao helped the team reached the quarterfinals of the Philippine Cup with the Express relying mostly on the youthful players like ace guard Ronjay Buenafe as well as rookies Rabeh Al-Hussaini and Noy Baclao.

Guiao, a former national coach, recently revealed that there are some teams asking for his services. However, he said his first priority is Air21.

Waylon Galvez, Manila Bulletin