MANILA, Philippines–Geo Chiu, the No. 1 overall pick by the Terrafirma Dyip in the PBA Rookie Draft, is not going anywhere–at least for the next couple of years.

PBA Commissioner Willie Marcial confirmed following Sunday’s proceedings at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall that those chosen first in the Draft are barred from being traded for the next two years, assuring the 6-foot-9 product of Ateneo of donning the Dyip jersey over that period.

READ: PBA Rookie Draft: Geo Chiu goes first, Juan Gomez de Liaño at No. 2

Marcial also said that there had been a rule that was initially implemented around 2019, when top picks could only be dealt after their rookie seasons.

The new policy was approved during a recent meeting of the league’s Board of Governors, where the status of the pending sale of NorthPort’s franchise to Pureblends was tackled.

Chiu had been rumored as the player Terrafirma will take in the Draft, owing to being the tallest in the field of 122 applicants.

READ: PBA Rookie Draft: Top pick Geo Chiu aiming high with Terrafirma

But there were concerns that the Dyip would be a temporary destination for Chiu, since the team has had a history of trading their first-round picks in recent years.

Terrafirma is in the process of completing its roster after the uncertainty surrounding its future in the past few months following failed negotiations to sell the franchise and even rumors of disbanding.

New coach Ronald Tubid earlier said that the Dyip had five or six players under contract, and picking Chiu is a headstart toward building their desired roster for the 50th season, which opens on Oct. 5.