POC finds private sponsors for SEA Games participation

MANILA—Facing an imminent shortage of funds for the Southeast Asian Games, private sponsorships for the Philippine Olympic Committee have started to trickle in.

POC president Jose “Peping” Cojuangco Jr. said at least two to three benefactors have already expressed interest to shoulder the expenses of some of the athletes bound for the 26th SEA Games on Nov.11 to 25 in Palembang and Jakarta, Indonesia.

And that’s outside the commitment of Harbour Centre CEO and shooting chief Mikee Romero and the group of telecommunications magnate Manny V. Pangilinan to bankroll the participation of their respective national sports associations in the 11-nation meet.

Pangilinan is the “godfather” of basketball and boxing, sitting as president of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and chairman of the Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines, respectively.

Pangilinan’s group, through the MVP Sports Foundation, is also helping out badminton and taekwondo.

“We have to move now and encourage private sponsors to support our national athletes to the games,” said Cojuangco.

“Two to three people have indicated that they will support our athletes,” said Cojuangco, who refused to name the sponsors. “Aside from these sponsors, Mikee (Romero) has already committed to take care of shooting.”