Mikee steps down as cycling chief

MANILA, Philippines - Citing the expansion of his various business interests, young port tycoon Mikee Romero yesterday stepped down as president of the Integrated Cycling Federation of the Philippines (ICFP) or Philcycling.

Romero, CEO and president of Harbour Centre, submitted his resignation letter to Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Jose “Peping” Cojuangco Jr.

“It is with deep regret that I tender my resignation as Philcycling president, effective Dec. 18, 2009,” said Romero in his letter to the POC personally handed by his assistant Erick Arejola.

“With my load work now, it is difficult for me to handle my responsibilities as Philcycling president with the same passion and energy as before. They (cyclists) are close to my heart but it’s unfair to them if I could not give them enough time knowing how they have trained and fought for flag and country,” said Romero.

Aside from Harbour Centre, Romero also has controlling interests in the Manila North Harbour Port, Inc. (MNHPI) and Pacifica, Inc. He is also a co-owner of the Philippine Patriots in the ASEAN Basketball League (ABL).

Romero was elected president of Philcycling last March but took a leave of absence last September due to his hectic business schedule.

Though he was on leave, Romero, 38, continued to support the cyclists, spending close to P5 million for tryouts, training and participation of the Philippine team to the Laos SEA Games. He even tapped Fil-Am Jeremy Moore to boost the country’s bid in the SEA Games.

Unfortunately, their group was not allowed to compete.

“Sayang, we could have won at least four gold medals,” said Romero.

He also thanked the POC officials for their support while he was at the helm of the cycling association.

Romero, however, said he’s not going to totally abandon the cyclists, saying: “I will still help them in my own way. They deserve help, everybody should help them.”