Ilagan still billiards president - POC

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Olympic Committee is not dipping its hands on the latest leadership issue concerning the Billiards Sports Confederation of the Philippines or BSCP.

Jose Romasanta, POC spokesperson, said the local Olympic body will have to observe a status quo, and that it will continue to recognize Bong Ilagan as BSCP president.

An election was held last July 9, and Aristeo “Putch” Puyat, the godfather of Philippine billiards, became president and North Cotabato Rep. Bernard Piñol chairman.

But Ilagan said it was an illegal exercise because he was not informed about it. The BSCP by-laws state that only the president or secretary-general can call for an election.

The POC was not represented as well during the July 9 elections.

“They will always go back to their constitution and by-laws if they were followed with regards to the last elections. The POC did not receive any notice of election,” said Romasanta..

“For the meantime, we will observe status quo. It’s purely internal and the NSAs are always regarded as autonomous. They have to settle it among themselves, based on their constitution,” he added.

Romasanta said even if the POC steps in and intervenes, the first thing it would ask is a copy of the BSCP constitution and by-laws.

“Even if there is arbitration, doon din ang punta, sa by-laws. They should do it themselves. They should settle this problem among themselves,” he said.

Even Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richie Garcia said the government agency is taking a hands-off policy on the matter.

“It’s within the NSA (national sports association) and the POC,” said Garcia.

Robert Mananquil, BSCP secretary-general under Ilagan, yesterday called The STAR, and said they have properly informed the POC of their objection to the July 9 election.

He said they will also inform the World Pool/Billiards Association of the development.

“Everybody knows that Mr. Ilagan’s term ends on 2015, following his election, and the incorporation of the BSCP in January last year,” said Mananquil.

He said the issues being raised by Puyat are being addressed by the BSCP, particularly regarding the sport’s grassroots development aimed at discovering new talents.

When Ilagan became BSCP president last year, Puyat was named chairman, Mahar Mangahas treasurer, Mananquil secretary-general, Ruben Roque auditor and Efren “Bata” Reyes as board member.

“Efren Reyes is there to make sure the BSCP can look after the welfare of the players,” said Mananquil.