Softball elections illegal — Angping

Harry Angping yesterday branded as "illegal, null and void" the recent Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines elections where Mario Raymundo was voted president.

Angping, the other Asaphil president, said the group’s constitution and by-laws state that all members should be duly noticed and invited at least 15 calendar days before such exercise.

There are nine board members at Asaphil.

Angping said when Raymundo was elected president last May 11, there were some Asaphil members who were not notified, invited and denied the chance to vote.

Angping appeared in yesterday’s PSA Forum at the Pantalan Restaurant. He was joined by a couple of lawyers and Asaphil members, former head Rolly Rivera and Zamboanga’s Luis Climaco.

Angping said they’ve already written Philippine Olympic Committee president Jose Cojuangco, calling for the Olympic body’s declaration that Raymundo’s election illegal.

Angping, then a Manila congressman, was elected Asaphil president in 2002. He is not seeking re-election but intends to finish his term, which should end with the election of a new set of officers.

As Angping was wrapping up his guesting at the weekly sports forum, Raymundo arrived. Smiling, he sat near the presidential table. Angping properly acknowledged his arrival.

Later on, in front of mediamen, Angping approached Raymundo and offered his hand in a gesture of sportsmanship. But the former Pasig City mayor refused to shake his hands.

"It’s okay. At least I tried. Nakita niyo naman," said Angping. He has nominated businessman Jean Henry Lhuillier as his possible successor. He said the Cebuano is fit for the job —young, energetic and full of resources.

Angping also announced the staging of the National Open and the Asaphil elections from June 9-12 at the Rosario Sports Complex in Pasig City.

Angping said he expects at least a dozen teams, including five from Mindanao, to compete in the tournament, which was originally scheduled later this month in Zamboanga City.

"Due to the recent developments, we have decided to move the National Open to give everybody the chance to participate," said Angping.

Angping said the elections will take place on June 12.

"This problem is brought about by people who do not follow the law. This should be corrected," said Climaco.