San Miguel Corporation top boss Ramon S. Ang (3rd from left) lead the turnover of P50M check as donation to the Philippine Olympic Committee. Photo from Marc Reyes/INQUIRER
It was a case of corporate one-upmanship that was very much welcome—and needed—by Philippine sports.
San Miguel Corporation chief operating officer Ramon S. Ang pulled off a surprise on Wednesday when he handed the Philippine Olympic Committee a check worth P50 million—P30 million more than what he pledged to give.
“I was pleasantly shocked and momentarily speechless,” said POC president Ricky Vargas. “The P20 million was already generous, but the additional P30 million highlights the commitment of San Miguel and Mr. Ang to Philippine sports. I am beyond grateful.”
PLDT and Smart chief executive officer Manny V. Pangilinan has already donated P20 million to the Olympic body.
Ang, assisted by SMC Sports director Alfrancis Chua, said they will serve as sports godfathers as it is their belief that sports plays an important role in nation building.