MVP not putting POC presidency in priority list

Manny V. Pangilinan. INQUIRER.net file photo

Sports patron Manny V. Pangilinan has a ton of concerns, but running for Philippine Olympic Committee president is clearly not among them.

“At this time, not really. I have a lot of work to do,” said Pangilinan Friday night after watching his Meralco Bolts win Game 1 of the PBA Governors’ Cup Finals.

Pangilinan said some people suggested that he challenge incumbent POC president Jose Cojuangco Jr. in the coming POC elections on Nov. 25.

Pangilinan bankrolls the national team programs of basketball, boxing and badminton, among others.

“That was also raised a few years ago, but it didn’t materialize,” he said. “I also don’t want to be involved in [POC] politics.”

Cojuangco, seeking a fourth straight term, is projected to run unopposed for another fresh four-year mandate at the helm of the POC.

On the Road Warriors’ hiring of coach Yeng Guiao, Pangilinan said the outspoken mentor from Rain Or Shine would fit the bill for NLEX.

“I think it’s a perfect fit for him and NLEX. There’s a strong identification with the tollways in Pampanga. That’s part of the reason why he entertained the notion of joining NLEX,” said Pangilinan.

Guiao has won seven PBA titles and will try to win more with NLEX, which has never made it past the quarterfinals.