PSC to athletes: We’re your ally
MANILA—Philippines Sports Commission chair Ritchie Garcia yesterday urged athletes affected by leadership issues in their sport to come forward and air their grievances.
“Athletes should not hesitate to approach us at the PSC if they’re disturbed by what’s going on in their sport,” said Garcia. “We’re not the enemy; we’re your ally.”
He said the government agency wants to shield the athletes from all the troubles caused by intra-NSA disputes.
“We’re here to serve our athletes,” Garcia emphasized. “They should feel free to air whatever problems they have.”
Some national paddlers have reportedly been grumbling over a decision by the Philippine Olympic Committee to place the Philippine Dragon Boat Federation under the Philippine Canoe-Kayak Federation.
The karatekas are also disgruntled over the expulsion of their colleagues who refused to compete in the recent National Games.
“It’s a choice made by these athletes,” said Garcia, referring to Asian Games silver medalist Marna Pabillore and four other karatekas.
“As for dragon boat, it falls under canoe-kayak but they don’t want that. We can’t do anything more for them (paddlers).”
The PSC chief added that the paddlers who will not accept the decision of the POC on the PDBF will also be stricken from the PH pool.
“It’s totally unfair to say that the government doesn’t support the athletes,” said Garcia. “We abide by the law and implement them.”
The PSC recognizes only the sports associations affiliated with the POC.
