GMA mum on PSC resignations

The Philippine Sports Commission has virtually become inoperative following the resignation of all four members of the board of commissioners and it will continue to be so until after President Arroyo has named their replacements.

President Arroyo, who formally opened yesterday the Palarong Bicol 2002, did not reveal whether she had accepted the resignation of commissioners Richie Garcia and Weena Lim who submitted theirs last week.

Commissioner William "Butch" Ramirez tendered his resignation two days after the resignation of former chair Carlos "Butch" Tuason two weeks ago.

Commissioner Cynthia Carrion, a former classmate of the President and the only presidential appointee, had also reportedly resigned although media relations coordinator Arsenic Lacson said he could not confirm it.

"Everything is quiet in the PSC," said Lacson, adding that Buhain was in Iriga to be with the President.

It could not be confirmed if the board would meet today, its regular meeting day, although the commissioners will still report for work until after their replacements are announced.

President Arroyo flew to Iriga City, in Camarines Sur where she and other government officials witnessed the opening ceremonies for the Palarong Bicol being held at the Iriga Central School.

"I declare Bicol Palaro open, Dios mabalos sa inyo gabos," President Arroyo said in her brief remarks.

In her brief address at the program, President Arroyo called upon the participating athletes and sports officials to do their best in the sports competitions.

"These games are being held so that we can learn, be trained whenever we compete, there must be rules of the game, fair play, team-manship and a competitive spirit," the President said.

"When there are games like these, we want to learn competitive spirit because in the 21st century, we must learn to compete with the rest in the 21st century. Secondly, we need teamwork because if we want to be successful in our competitions, we should be united and be a team," the President urged.

The President also called upon all the local government officials in the Bicol region, including their leaders in Congress to help promote the development of new Filipino sports talents who could represent and compete for honors for the Philippines in international sports competitions.