Ramirez warns NSAs

A torturous shingles prevented me from attending two events last weekend.

One was a PSC-sponsored fellowship at Philsports Arena in Pasig City and the other was the 70th birthday of Philippine Star sports editor Lito Tacujan in Wack Wack.

In his speech before a thousand athletes and coaches, PSC Chair William “Butch” Ramirez issued a warning to sports officials who are making athletes’ life miserable.

He even called on athletes to report national sports association (NSA) heads involved in any irregularity.

The PSC chair vowed to immediately investigate and prosecute erring sport officials.

“We are bringing change to sports in the country and will make sure our athletes will be treated well,” Ramirez said.

And to realize this, the athletes should be unburdened of problems and abuses from sports officials.

Ramirez reiterated his earlier warning to NSAs to shape up or lose government support.

I missed the opportunity to meet and greet my old sportswriting colleagues during Lito’s birthday bash.

A sportswriter who attended the birthday celebration told me that it was a gathering of sportswriters and editors from different newspapers.

Among those who graced the occasion were his longtime colleagues Jun Engracia and Teddyvic Melendres of Inquirer, Ding Marcelo of Manila Bulletin, columnist Quinito Henson, Abap executive director Ed Picson, Philip “Ella” Juico of Patafa and sportsman Tommy Manotoc.

Engracia, Melendres, Henson and Picson delivered their inspiring speeches which traced their association with the celebrant from way back decades ago.

Lito’s family and friends were also present.