Baradas named acting baseball head

MANILA, Philippines - Following the death of Hector Navasero early this month, Ely Baradas has assumed the role of acting president of the Philippine Amateur Baseball Association (PABA).

Baradas, who carries the dual role of PABA executive vice president and commissioner, and his fellow PABA officials sat down with PSC commissioner Jolly Gomez yesterday.

“Commissioner Gomez said as far as the Philippine Sports Commission is concerned, they will recognize me as PABA president until an election is held,” Baradas told The STAR.

Navasero, who was PABA president for more than 20 years, passed away early this month due to heart ailment.

Baradas, who also enjoys the support of the Philippine Olympic Committee, said first thing to do is to convene the PABA board and tackle the holding of an election.

Baradas said he wants the election to be held as soon as possible to ensure continuity within the association.

“We can hold the election in November and hold a year-ending tournament in December,” said Baradas, an old, trusted hand in Philippine baseball.

“We need to hold an election as soon as possible because it’s long been overdue,” said Baradas.