Palami reminds Azkals: Behave!

KATHMANDU – With the “sexual harassment” controversy engulfing two Azkals still raging back home, Azkals team manager Dan Palami made himself present when the match commissioner conducted the pre-game inspection before their AFC Challenge Cup match with North Korea last Friday.

He kept on reminding the players to be more mindful about jokes in the locker room, something that has put Lexton Moy and Angel Guirado in hot water during the Azkals’ previous international friendly with Malaysia in Manila.

Moy and Guirado had been accused of “sexual harrassment” by Cristy Ramos, match commissioner of the Azkals’ fixture with Malaysia for allegedly making a “B-Cup” remark and wearing briefs during the inspection, respectively.

Moy finally broke his silence yesterday and apologized to those “who I inadvertently hurt or insulted due to a comment directed to a teammate.”

According to Palami steps are now being taken to prevent similar incidents from happening again inside the dugout. 

“We’re making sure that no one walks in and misinterprets anything they say and make sure that no one walks in until everyone is dressed,” said Palami. 

Such measures include holding a “gender-sensitivity” seminar for the team. 

“This issue has taught players how even a small thing can lead to a huge and painful misunderstanding, and they now want to take extra measures to avoid a similar future occurrence  and see what we can do to help champion gender rights,” he said.

The Philippine Football Federation’s disciplinary committee has started with its investigation on Ramos’ complaint.

Moy, meanwhile, issued his official statement yesterday.

“To all those who I inadvertently hurt or insulted due to a comment directed to a teammate, please accept my humble apology. In this time of unrest, I want to thank everyone who has shown their continual support to me and the rest of the team,” he said.

“This is a heartbreaking misunderstanding. It deeply saddens me that such a misinterpretation can be so painstakingly blown out of proportion,” he added.

He promised full cooperation with the probe.

“Although I want the truth to be revealed as soon as possible, I will patiently handle this situation properly, appropriately, and, most of all, professionally,” he said.  

“Sexual harassment accusations are very serious claims. These wrongful allegations have taken their toll on myself, my friends, and family, and the Philippines National team in the midst of a historical milestone for football in the Philippines,” he added.