There are already reports about people infected in Manila, so this means people won't be going to the crowded places and this would affect the sales of the PBA this season.
source : https://www.spin.ph/basketball/pba/pba-not-spared-as-emergency-board-meeting-set-to-tackle-covid-19-a793-20200309?ref=feed_1_section
Actually, I can't consider it as bad news solely for PBA even their revenue will be affected since it's a must thing to do and necessary. Prioritizing people's health over profit.
And besides, it's not just PBA who is affected but the majority of services, companies, establishments, etc. here in the country as well. Actually, the NBA is also planning to play on an empty arena if the virus infection spreads more.
The outbreak is really unstoppable. I think several people already infected in Manila alone but not yet checked.
Just to clear, SMB is not considered an underdog on that game.
The reason also why the Moneyline odds are close.