PATAFA-Obiena rift an ‘internal matter’

MANILA, Philippines — World Athletics, the governing body in the sport, said the strife between Olympian pole-vaulter EJ Obiena and the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA) is an internal affair that can be solved using the latter’s by-laws.

“As previously stated, we consider this as an internal matter, and in line with the approach taken, we encourage all internal disputes of a member federation to be resolved in accordance with stated processes and procedures for resolving disputes in a member federation’s constitution or applicable (and) relevant rules and regulations and that these are run fairly for all concerned,” said World Athletics president Sebastian Coe in a two-page letter to PATAFA chief Philip Ella Juico last Thursday.

Coe, a two-time middle distance Olympic gold medalist and holder of three world records, also affirmed their recognition of PATAFA as the country’s official ruling body in the country.

Apart from electing or appointing its own set of officers, Coe said PATAFA’s other responsibilities are administering, promoting and developing the sport in the country in accordance with the purposes of World Athletics.

“The PATAFA is a member of World Athletics and as such is the sole governing body of athletics in the Philippines,” said Coe.

World Athletics lauded Juico, former chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), for his contributions in promoting the sport worldwide.

“Dr. Philip Juico was also a member of the World Athletics governance and integrity reform working group and values commission and provided valuable input to support the implementation and promotion of these critical areas of work, which are fundamental to underpin our sport and the growth of athletics,” said Coe.