IOC okays athlete and women empowerment in POC

Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino —INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

Filipino athletes have been empowered by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to help shape the landscape of Philippine sports.

“Athletes representation has a heavier weight within the POC revolving on their active participation in the decision-making process,’’ said POC president Abraham “Bambol’’ Tolentino after the POC general assembly amended its constitution and bylaws late last week following the IOC’s approval.

The modification in the POC charter is timely since the Athletes Commission will hold its election of officers on Jan. 27 with Olympians EJ Obiena (pole vault), Jayson Valdez (shooting) and Jessie Khing Lacuna (swimming) expected to take the reins.

It took three years for the POC to finally secure the IOC’s approval of the amendments that included gender equity, maximum term of office and age limit for POC leaders.

From now on, the age limit for POC officials is 75 years old and they can only serve for three consecutive terms. Also, at least 30 percent of the POC executive board must be female.

“The amended constitution also focuses on diversity and inclusion. We are also putting more emphasis on the physical and mental health of athletes,’’ said Tolentino.

According to Tolentino, the revised POC constitution has laid down strict policies on conflict of interest, political neutrality and autonomy but encourages harmonious relations with government authorities and external partners.