Fewer RP officials in Asiad eyed

When the Philippine delegation leaves for the 14th Asian Games in Busan, South Korea, this September, expect a big cut not only in the number of athletes but officials as well.

This was recently announced by Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Eric Buhain as he stressed that the quadrennial event is not simply going to be an exposure trip for the athletes.

"Regarding the officials, I’m looking at a smaller number, too, because I would rather send more technical people who can really help our athletes during the competition," said Buhain.

During the 1998 Asian Games in Bangkok, the Philippines sent more than 600 athletes and close to 200 officials but came home with just a single gold medal courtesy of billiards.

"That’s why only the qualified athletes will go this time," said Buhain, adding that the government sports agency has allocated P30 million for the actual participation of the RP athletes in Busan.

The Busan Asian Games Task Force composed of representatives from the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) and the PSC said only 132 athletes have met their criteria so far.

"They make up the Asian Games training pool. But being in the list doesn’t mean that you’re sure of a slot. These athletes must stay in top condition until September," said Ramon Suzara of the task force.

In last year’s Southeast Asian Games in Kuala Lumpur, the Philippines was represented by 352 athletes who competed in 29 of 32 events and won 31 gold, 65 silver and 67 bronze medals.

They were joined by 80 coaches, 26 team managers, 42 members of the support staff like administrative officials and medical personnel, the chief of mission and his four assistants – all paid for by the PSC.

The number does not include the top officials of the different national sports associations (NSAs) for close to a ratio of one official for two Filipino athletes.