By Jean Malanum/Philippine News Agency
MANILA – The major stakeholders of Philippine sports will work hand-in-hand to ensure the successful hosting of the 30th Southeast Asian Games (SEAG).
“The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC) and the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) are united in one leadership of the President of the Republic, to host and participate in the 30th Southeast Asian Games,” said PSC chairman William “Butch” Ramirez in a statement released on Friday.
Ramirez, who was designated chef de mission of Team Philippines, also denied reports of corruption in the PHISGOC, chaired by Taguig Rep. Allan Peter Cayetano.
“There is no truth to the allegation of corruption. Yesterday, Cong. Alan Peter Cayetano, and myself sat down with Senator Bong Go and Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea to sort out issues being reported by news outfits in the past days,” said Ramirez, who attended the meeting at Malacañang on Thursday.
Ramirez also assured the transparency of all transactions related to the SEAG hosting.
“We assure the athletes and the general public that all decisions and transactions will be done with the utmost transparency. The PSC, through the guidance of the Department of Budget Management and assistance of the Procurement Service, shall work together to ensure that public funds are protected and that all disbursements or expenses follow existing government rules and laws,” noted Ramirez, who also served as CDM during the 2005 SEAG.
Ramirez said he will update the various national sports association (NSA) officials and athletes on the SEAG preparations.
“We shall be gathering presidents and athletes of all POC and PSC accredited national sports associations (NSAs) to personally update them on developments and be witnesses to the pledge of unity of major stakeholders of Philippine sports,” he said.
“We enjoin the country to be united in supporting government efforts and lend support towards the victory of our beloved athletes. All for our dear country’s pride and glory,” he added.
“Unity and national commitment are key. We win as one! As Sen. Bong Go said, “One team. One goal. One flag. Go for gold!” Ramirez said.
The PSC, PHISGOC, and POC will meet with the NSAs at Malacañang on July 24 at 10 a.m. Each NSA will bring five athletes.
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