POC eyes one secretariat on RP participation in international games

MANILA, Philippines -- The Philippine Olympic Committee took the first step in strengthening its ties with the Philippine Sports Commission by proposing a permanent secretariat tasked to handle preparations of the national team in major international competitions.

POC spokesperson Joey Romasanta called for the scrapping of the joint POC-PSC task force in favor of a fixed working group that would prepare the country’s contingent in the Southeast Asian Games, Asian Games and the Olympics.

“The Asian Games task force is temporary,” said Romasanta at the PSC’s turnover rites where new PSC chair Richie Garcia formally assumed office.

“We need a more permanent group that will take care of the country’s preparation in major tournaments, a group which is very familiar with administrative functions,” added the RP chef de mission to the Guangzhou Asian Games in November.

Romasanta said the permanent secretariat, composed of representatives from the POC and PSC should have a maximum of three key personnel.

“It’s a permanent secretariat for all delegations in all major international competitions,” said Romasanta.

“This committee will be there to assist the delegation officials appointed in all major tournaments. The experience of the committee will make things easier on the formation of the team and the preparations that should be made,” he added.

Outgoing PSC head Harry Angping handed the symbolic flag of the PSC to Garcia then immediately left for the opening of the 15th Congress where his wife, Zenaida, has been elected representative of Manila’s fourth district.

In response to the POC’s suggestion, Garcia chose PSC chief accountant Merlita Ibay and PSC official Boy Dinglasan to work with Romasanta regarding the financial aspect of the Nov. 12 to 27 Asiad stint.

Ibay and Dinglasan are also scheduled to join Romasanta on Wednesday, during the POC general assembly.