Cojuangco ally Hontiveros may replace Clavecilla at PSC

PHILIPPINE Olympic Committee secretary general Steve Hontiveros is being considered as a possible replacement for commissioner Iggy Clavecilla of the Philippine Sports Commissioner who suffered a stroke recently.

Hontiveros, a former president of the Philippine Bowling Congress and now head of the Philippine Handball Association, confirmed yesterday he has been recommended for the position but has not received any official notification from Malacañang.

“If I get chosen, I’d be willing to work. After all, I have been serving sports for a very long time,” said Hontiveros, who is said to have been recommended to the PSC by Philippine Olympic Committee president Jose “Peping” Cojuangco, his friend and longtime ally.

Hontiveros’ name also came up as a replacement for commissioner Chito Loyzaga, who resigned in June.

Clavecilla, who was eventually appointed by President Aquino as Loyzaga’s replacement, suffered a stroke last week while competing in a seniors golf tournament in South Korea.

Reports said Clavecilla is fast recovering but would need a few more weeks of rest in the hospital so he could be fit enough to fly home.