Warring karatekas name head

Warring factions in the Philippine Karatedo Federation yesterday installed an interim president in what was viewed as the first step in resuscitating the association which has been rudderless since its president stepped down last month.

After a long debate, the group named German Lopez interim president in place of the resigned Pocholo Veguillas.

Lopez said top item on his agenda is the unification of PKF members and non-members.

"Walang madedehado dito, patas ang pagtingin natin sa bawat isa so mahalagang mapagsama natin ang dating PKF members at 'yung hindi pa (Nobody will be disenfanchised. Everything will be on the level, what is important is we bring together all the members and non-members)," said Lopez.

POC membership committee chair Go Teng Kok reiterated an appeal to hold a national convention and revise the constitution and by-laws of the PKF to avoid a repetition of the leadership controversy that led to the player's revolt against the PKF.

POC secretary-general Romeo Ribaño said the POC would back any positive move that will put the PKF back on its feet.

Go also gave the parties until the last week of May to settle the issue or face suspension from the POC. -