INQUIRER Sports

SOUTHEAST ASIAN GAMES back-to-back billiards champion Rubilen Amit was readily forgiven for her “ill-advised” decision to join a recent rally against Philippine Sports Commission chair Harry Angping.

The 28-year-old Amit, recent winner of the women’s world 10-ball championship, said she merely followed instructions by officials to join the rally spearheaded by disgruntled wrestling leaders while Angping was in China on official business.

In accepting Amit’s apology Friday, Angping said he will “always have a soft spot for the athletes” even if billiards has yet to solve its leadership squabble.

National coach Boy Asonto and teammate Mary Ann Basas accompanied Amit when she sought forgiveness from Angping during a lunch meeting.

“She apologized, she told me she didn’t know it was a rally. She apologized to me not only once but four times. I have a soft spot for athletes,” said Angping.

The PSC chief said that he is expecting a strong performance from the RP cue masters during the Laos SEAG in December.

“We expect them to deliver in Laos, we have high hopes for them. I don’t care who their president is, I only care about the welfare of the athletes.”

Several athletes and sports officials had earlier rallied against the PSC chief, calling for his resignations amid charges that he mishandled funds.