The Philippine Olympic Committee is launching a fund drive to complement the government's effort to reward Filipino sporting heroes with financial incentives.
This was bared by POC president Celso Dayrit who likewise announced the appointment of POC first vice president Salvador Andrada as the country's chief of mission in the coming Sydney Olympics following their meeting yesterday at the PCA Complex in Paco.
"We would like to help the government in its effort to recognize the feats of Filipino athletes with financial reward," said Dayrit in announcing the fund drive.
But Dayrit pointed out they came out with the plan not in reaction to reports that 1964 Olympics boxing silver medalist Anthony Villanueva is selling his medal due to financial difficulties.
"It's coincidental. We're not doing this because we're reacting to his plan. We're doing this because it's the Olympic year," said Dayrit.
Meanwhile, Andrada, the Philippine Tennis Association president, said he's honored to be chosen the country's chef de mission to the Olympics for the second time.