PSC urges POC to settle NSA rows

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Sports Commission urged the Philippine Olympic Committee to settle disputes among national sports associations (NSAs) using one basic requirement – recognition from their International Federations.

“If a NSA is recognized by the international federation, then the POC has no choice but to recognize it,’’ said PSC chair Harry Angping. “It is that simple, let us just follow the rule of law.’’

Angping, a former NSA president for softball, was referring to the leadership disputes in badminton and cycling where two groups are claiming to be legitimate leaders of their respective associations.

On one hand, there are badminton’s former First Lady Amelita Ramos and cycling’s Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham Tolentino, both recognized by their respective IFs.

On the other side are badminton’s Errol Chan, a former RP team coach, and cycling’s Rolando Hiso, both leaders of breakaway groups which held their own elections earlier than their rivals.

The POC, however, said it is not recognizing any group just yet and instead gave the warring sides 10 days to resolve their disputes.

If they remain unresolved, the POC arbitration committee chaired by Victorico Chavez will make the final decision.

Angping, however, said the IF recognition should be the basis of the POC recognition.

“As far as I’m concerned, (Ming) Ramos is the president of badminton and I don’t recognize the other group,’’ said Angping. “In cycling, I have to review the facts yet but the same principle of IF recognition should also apply,’’ he added.

Angping, however, clarified he would respect whatever decision the POC would make.

“I will respect the decision of the POC, whatever it is,” said Angping. “The PSC, however, is the funding agency and as a partner of the POC, there should be a compromise.”

“For me, my compromise will always be to recognize the group that has the support of the IF,’’ he added.

Like badminton and cycling, the POC is also looking to settle disputes in wushu, archery, snooker and billiards and wrestling.

Angping also vowed to oppose moves to revive the “have money, will travel’’ policy in the Southeast Asian Games.

“I would not consider reviving the policy,’’ said Angping. `”If an athlete is talented and a potential medal winner, he doesn’t have to shell out money because the PSC will automatically fund his needs.’’