Loyzaga to handle high-profile sports

MANILA, Philippines - Among the four commissioners, Chito Loyzaga will probably be the busiest as the Philippine Sports Commission gears up for the country’s participation in the Guangzhou Asian Games in November.

Chairman Richie Garcia has divided the close to 50 NSAs (national sports associations) among his four commissioners, and Loyzaga, the former basketball star, ended up with just enough for him to handle.

Garcia said each NSA will be the responsibility of each commissioner. Aside from Loyzaga, also appointed by President Aquino to the PSC board were Buddy Andrada, Jolly Gomez and Akiko Thomson.

Dina Bernardo, a former member of the RP dragon boat team, will also have her share of work load as PSC executive director.

“It’s part of the challenge. And we wouldn’t have accepted these jobs if we don’t feel we can face the challenge,” said Loyzaga, son of Caloy Loyzaga, considered as the greatest Filipino basketball player ever.

On Loyzaga’s lap are high-profile NSAs like athletics, basketball, boxing, tennis, golf, baseball, football, taekwondo and wushu.

He said on paper, it might be too tough to look after all these NSAs, and to deal with the needs of the athletes.

“Our priority is the coming Asian Games. So when I start dealing with them we need to focus on the Asian Games, and their needs in training. We need to make sure they get the proper support, from allowances to food and training requirements,” said Loyzaga.

The former PBA star who was known for his stone-wall defense and occasional three-pointers said he’s just waiting for the official lineups of these NSAs for the Asian Games before he begins the regular consultations.

“We will try to give the athletes everything they need. I was a former athlete and I know their needs. The PSC is here to give them peace of mind as they train for the Asian Games,” he said.