Estrada defers action on `Atleta'

President Joseph Estrada has deferred action on the proposed Atleta Program by the Philippine Sports Commission, apparently to study details of the country's sports program for elite sports.

The move, according to PSC chair Carlos Tuason, could be gleaned as a positive sign towards the approval and the subsequent implementation of the ambitious project, which seeks to support, train and harness the talents of potential Asian Games and Olympic Games medal winners.

"Obviously, the President has shown interest because he asked for some details which we'll furnish him early next week," said Tuason, who met with the President the other day. "I believe the President will approve (the program)."

Atleta assistant project director Ramon Suzara, for his part, is also optimistic that the President will approve the project, designed to give athletes in 15 selected sports events about P2 to P2.5 million per year.