POC to draw 4-year plan for RP sports

The Philippine Olympic Committee will hold its initial planning session for the year 2009 upon the return of its president, Jose “Peping” Cojuangco from the United States next week.

The POC executive committee made up of the officers who were elected to four-year terms last Nov. 29 will meet on Wednesday next week. Cojuangco will be back on Monday.

“They will discuss the general direction of the POC not only for this year but for the next four years,” said POC spokesman Jose Romasanta.

“Important matters will be discussed by the officers, and they will include the 2009 SEA Games in Laos, the 2010 Asian Games in China and the 2012 Olympics in London,” Romasanta added.

The POC officers will draw the initial guidelines and then shortly after will discuss them with the rest of the national sports associations (NSAs) for implementation.

Another issue that Cojuangco might raise is how to maintain harmony within the Olympic body following the bitter discussions that preceded the elections two months ago.

Art Macapagal of shooting engaged Cojuangco in a tight and exciting race for the presidency. But the latter said he’s ready to welcome everybody who’s willing to help.

Aside from Cojuangco, winning four-year terms were weightlifting’s Monico Puentevella (chairman), boxing’s Manny Lopez (first vice president), sepak takraw’s Mario Tanchangco (second VP), wushu’s Julian Camacho (treasurer), bodybuilding’s Corina Mojica (auditor) and swimming’s Mark Joseph, archery’s Leonara Brawner, soft tennis’ Jeffrey Tamayo and judo’s Dave Carter as board members. – Abac Cordero