SBP Chairman wants chairman emeritus role for MVP

Manny V. Pangilinan. PBA PHOTO

Manny V. Pangilinan may have declared his intention to leave the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, but one of his colleagues wants the basketball honcho to stay for a guiding role.

SBP Chairman Oscar Moreno said Thursday in a press conference at PLDT Office he wants Pangilinan to serve as chairman emeritus even if the 69-year-old basketball godfather said he would leave his post at SBP after serving his eight-year presidency.

READ: MVP won’t seek reelection as SBP president

Moreno said he understands Pangilinan’s “extreme reluctance” for the post because of propriety but he thinks Pangilinan still has it in him to guide the SBP.

“But then Philippine basketball still needs his guiding hand, the SBP still needs support and guidance especially in this era,” Moreno said. “Philippine basketball has gone tremendous strides with the leadership of Mr. Pangilinan.”

Moreno stressed Pangilinan’s inclusion into the Fiba Central Board as recognition of the latter’s “tremendous efforts that have been made here in the Philippines.”

“At the end of the day it’s still subject to his acceptance,” Moreno said. “I hope for the sake of Philippine basketball, Mr. Pangilinan would accept that.”