Team Phl hopes to call on Duterte

MANILA, Philippines – Sports officials will be seeking an audience with president-elect Rodrigo Duterte for Team Philippines in mid-July before the Olympians leave for Brazil for the 2016 Olympics.

“It’s so close and I’m sure the schedule of the president will be tight but we’re going to request that the Philippine delegation gets to call on the president before everybody leaves,” chef de mission Joey Romasanta said in an interview on DZSR.

The Philippine Olympic Committee official added that it’s been a while since members of Team Philippines were sent off by a sitting Chief Executive.

“Napakaganda po ito if ever dahil for the first time after six years, magkakaroon ng pagkakataon ang mga atleta na makaharap at mabasbasan ng Pangulo ng Pilipinas (the athletes will get a chance to meet the Philippine President and get his blessing) before they go to any competition,” Romasanta said.

The Rio-bound contingent is being eyed for a flight to Brazil during the period July 16-20.

Fil-Am trackster Eric Cray, boxers Charly Suarez and Rogen Ladon, taekwondo jin Kirstie Elaine Alora and table tennis ace Ian Lariba have clinched their berths to Rio. Marestella Torres was given a universality slot but according to Romasanta, the long jump queen will lose it once the qualification of marathoner Mary Joy Tabal is confirmed.

Tabal has said she is complying with the requirements set by the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (Patafa) and is seeking reinstatement to the national team to realize her Olympic dream.

Meanwhile, golf star Miguel Tabuena has practically assured himself of a slot to the Rio Olympics with his stellar performance over the weekend in the Sectional Qualifying that earned a dream ticket to the US Open.

Tabuena maintained his position at 37th in the Olympic Rankings – well inside the Top 60 cut off with barely a month left in the qualification period. Angelo Que, the other Pinoy aspirant, is hanging on at 52nd.

“According to the sports entries (of the International Olympic Committee), Tabuena is a shoo-in. The only one trying to maintain his position is Angelo Que,” said Romasanta.