Philsoc vows to settle all SEAG debts

The Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (Philsoc) is not running away from its debts and any other obligation incurred during the country’s hosting of the 23rd SEA Games in 2005.

Steve Hontiveros, Philsoc secretary-general, yesterday lashed back at the unidentified creditor or creditors trying to use the media to put pressure on the SEA Games organizing body to pay up.

"We don’t even know who’s asking for what. How can we act on it when you speak before the media and ask not to be identified? With all honesty, Philsoc is trying hard to pay up," said Hontiveros.

"We will not allow ourselves to be blotted by these things," said Hontiveros.

A newspaper (not The STAR) reported yesterday that Philsoc has yet to settle its obligations, amounting P170 million, with certain suppliers, service providers and even volunteers during the SEA Games.

Philsoc, which was headed by Philippine Olympic Committee president Jose Cojuangco, struck a deal with the Philippine Sports Commission for the latter to settle the debts.

In exchange, Philsoc would turn over or has turned over P100 million worth of sports equipment, which it purchased for the SEA Games where the Philippines emerged as overall champion.

Ramirez could not be reached for comment.

"Maybe there’s just a creditor that wanted to put some pressure on Philsoc," said Joey Romasanta, spokesperson of the POC.