‘Softball elections must be constitutional’

Philippine Olympic Committee chairman Robert Aventajado yesterday called on the Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines to strongly adhere to its constitution when it holds its general elections next month.

Aventajado, a former rally driver who now heads the taekwondo association, said incumbent Asaphil president Harry Angping will have to make sure that the forthcoming elections are conducted smoothly and free of any technicality.

"They must adhere to their constitution and by-laws or we will not recognize the winner," said Aventajado, citing as an example last month’s softball "elections" where former Pasig City Mayor and Asaphil head Mario Raymundo was chosen president.

Angping, who was elected Asaphil president in 2002, has declared that he’s not seeking re-election. He has called for an election and at the same time nominated Cebuano sportsman Jean Henri Lhuillier as his successor.

But Angping’s detractors couldn’t wait to strike him out, calling for and holding an election last month.

The POC, however, declared the election illegal since certain sections of the Asaphil constitution and by-laws were violated.

Aventajado said Raymundo was given enough time to prove that his election was legal.

"Mr. Raymundo even said he was just a ‘beneficiary’ of the said elections, and that he was not the one who really called for it. Then he asked for a week so he could talk to those responsible for it," said Aventajado.

"But he was unable to convince the POC. There were violations of the Asaphil by-laws. The POC has rules that it has to apply. As long as I’m the POC chairman, this will apply," added Aventajado.

Raymundo refused to accept the POC decision and has declared war against the POC, its president Jose "Peping" Cojuangco, and Angping.

Asked what options are left for Raymundo, Aventajado failed to provide a quick answer. "Maybe he can run in the coming elections," he said.