Critics after my position - Joseph

Manila, Philippines - Embattled Philippine Aquatic Sports Association president Mark Joseph has broken his silence against his detractors demanding his resignation.

“I’ve reached the point of no return. I’m already fed up of all the accusations,” said Joseph who said he has no intentions of stepping down from his post.

Former Sen. Nikki Coseteng has taken the cudgels for the group headed by former national swimmer Susan Papa in calling for Joseph’s resignation.

For the past few weeks, they’ve used every channel available in hurling various accusations against Joseph, and demanding his resignation.

Joseph also said there’s no basis for the other group to say that PASA under his watch has failed to deliver especially in international competitions.

“In the period that we’ve been receiving this support (from Pagcor) our NSA (national sports association) delivered. Ours was the NSA of the Year,” Joseph said.

He added that PASA produced the Athlete of the Year (in the SEA Games) in Miguel Molina, half of the Phl delegation to the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and the most number of Filipino qualifiers to the last Youth Olympic Games.

“And they’re asking me to resign? They want to take over PASA. They have a vested interest. They’ve seen how well PASA is running now,” he added.

Coseteng said she’s not interested in the position.

“I’m not interested in his position. I’m only doing this for the sake of our young swimmers,” said the former senator.

Joseph maintained silence even after the group went to the Ombudsman and questioned his receipt of P34 million from Pagcor from 2007-2009.

 “These people have questioned my integrity. Now I want to make it clear that the supposed charges of money laundering are all nonsense,” he said.

“They say it’s illegal. But there’s no such law saying it’s illegal. And if it was, then why haven’t I received any disallowance from the Commission on Audit.

“Was there anything illegal? Was there any violation? And how could I have benefited from the funds? I’m denying all these accusations,” said Joseph.