Peping expects two-man race in POC polls

Philippine Olympic Committee president Jose “Peping” Cojuangco has welcomed the possibility of a realignment of forces gearing up for the POC elections on Nov. 26.

Cojuangco said he wouldn’t be surprised if the race for the POC presidency boils down to a one-on-one between him and shooting head Art Macapagal.

“I think so, yes,” he said of the possibility of a two-man race.

Taekwondo’s Robert Aventajado, the incumbent chairman, and weightlifting’s Monico Puentevella, the first vice president, also want to run as president.

But recent developments may lead to a realignment of forces among Cojuangco, Aventajado and Puentevella.

“Anything can still happen. Nagpapa-kiramdaman,” said Cojuangco Wednesday evening. “If only I can have my way, I’d like the present set of officers to remain.”

Also holding key positions in the POC are boxing’s Manny Lopez as second vice president, bowling’s Steve Hontiveros as secretary-general, swimming’s Mark Joseph as deputy sec-gen, Mario Tanchangco of sepak-takraw as auditor and Julian Camacho of wushu as treasurer.

Cojuangco said he has asked Frank Elizalde, the International Olympic Committee representative to the Philippines, to draw up the election guidelines as soon as possible.

“We have to set guidelines on the deadline for the filing of candidacy or how to resolve ties in case there are any, plus other important matters. Mr. Elizalde is the most capable man to do this,” said Cojuangco.

There are 40 voting members in the POC, including Elizalde, and in case of a one-on-one showdown the magic number is 21. If three persons run for president, only 14 votes or the simple majority are needed to win.

Fencing’s Celso Dayrit, the POC chief from 2000 to 2004, had wanted to reclaim his old post but a few days ago he has decided to slide down and instead run as chairman under Macapagal.

The shooting president, a very low-key figure in the RP Olympic body, is the half-brother of President (Macapagal) Arroyo, and this might force Puentevella to give up his bid for the presidency.