PKF booted out of world body

The governing World Karate Federation (WKF) has stripped the Philippine Karatedo Federation (PKF) of recognition in the face of a controversy involving unpaid overseas allowances of its athletes.

In a letter to PKF president Joey Romasanta, WKF president Antonio Espinos said they had decided to withdraw support to the local federation and the disqualification would be submitted for ratification in the WKF Congress.

“We have reviewed all evidences and research provided by our executive committee member, Mr. Vincent Chen, and the information provided by you and your federation, and the WKF EC has decided to withdraw the recognition of the PKF-NSA,’’ Espinos told Romasanta.

The decision of the WKF stemmed from the complaint of national karatedo athletes before the Philippine Sports Commission that they did not receive the allowance due them during their training in Germany last year.

Being stripped of recognition means that the PKF will not be entitled to any financial support from the PSC.

Twelve karatedo team members went to train in Germany, accompanied by PKF secretary-general Raymund Lee Reyes and were supposed to receive allowances of $1,800 each. They got just $470 each.

“I will definitely appeal the decision before the WKF Congress,” Romasanta said.