Ramirez heads RP Asiad team

For the second straight time, Philippine Sports Commission chairman William "Butch" Ramirez will play the role of RP chef-de-mission in a multi-nation, multi-event competition.

Ramirez was appointed yesterday by Philippine Olympic Committee president Jose "Peping" Cojuangco as chef-de-mission to the 15th Asian Games in Doha, Qatar in December.

Ramirez also acted as the RP chef-de-mission during last year’s 23rd Southeast Asian Games in Manila after First Gentleman Jose Arroyo, the first choice, opted to stay in the sidelines.

Ramirez was elated with his latest appointment.

"Of course, it’s an honor for me. We will serve them well," said Ramirez over the telephone.

"I think my experience as acting chef-de-mission in last year’s SEA Games will serve me well. But the Asian Games is of higher level. This is a different ballgame," he said.

As chef-de-mission, Ramirez will have to oversee the country’s actual participation in the coming Asian Games, including the athletes’ overall safety and condition while they’re in Doha.

The chairman of the government’s funding arm in sports also thanked the POC for its trust and confidence, and vowed to serve under the directive of the Olympic body.

"If you have sound fundamentals, and if you are focused, you can do this job. You also need all the enthusiasm here," added Ramirez who will have Gen. Mario Tanchangco of sepak takraw as his deputy.

Another person considered for the job, according to POC insiders, were businessman-sportsman Manny V. Pangilinan, chairman of telecommunication giants PLDT and Smart.

Ramirez said he’s ready for all the challenges that may come his way over the next five months leading to the Asian Games scheduled Dec. 1 to 15.

"If there will be differences along the way, I will take them as a part of my performance of my duties," Ramirez said.

Tom Carrasco of triathlon was RP chef-de-mission during the 2002 Asian Games in Busan, Korea.

Meanwhile, the PSC board is currently deliberating on increasing the $30-a-day allowance being given to Filipino athletes competing overseas.

The PSC said there’s a plan to increase the daily allowance to $50 or even $60 considering the increasing cost overseas.

Commissioner Ritchie Garcia said the PSC has been deliberating on this for quite some time now. It was not clear if the increase could be effected in the coming Asian Games.

To motivate the RP athletes, the PSC gave them the similar $30 daily allowance during the 23rd Southeast Asian Games even if it was held here in the country.