Tuesday, October 31, 2006 Next PSC chairman coming from Negros? By Henry C. Villalva
COMMISSIONER Ricardo “Ritchie” Garcia of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is speculated to replace PSC Chairman William “Buthch” Ramirez who is reportedly resigning after this year’s 15th Asian Games in Doha, Qatar.
Also eyed to succeed Ramirez are former commissioner Ray Roquero and Ali Atienza, the son of Manila Mayor Lito Atienza who chairs the Manila Sports Council and is a presidential adviser on youth and sports.
If Garcia gets appointed it will be viewed as an approval of the programs Ramirez has initiated during his tenure since both officials are seen to be working closely together on several vital programs and events including the forthcoming Asiad where Ramirez will be the RP contingent’s chief of mission and Garcia as his deputy.
Ramirez is widely credited for reviving the bilateral talks with China as evidenced by the deployment of national athletes in Guangzhou and other cities during the buildup to last year’s Southeast Asian Games.
During his brief tenure, Ramirez also helped upgrade the living conditions of athletes staying inside the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex and at the Philsports in Pasig.
He was also mainly responsible for putting up the Philippine Sports Institute.
Garcia is expected to strengthen PSC support for the National University Games (Unigames) where he was the keynote speaker during the opening ceremonies of the 11th Unigames last October 23 at the University of St. La Salle Coliseum.
During his speech he vowed continued PSC support “for as long as we remain in the commission.”
Ramirez recently confirmed in Manila that regardless of the outcome of the Philippines’ participation in the 15th Asian Games he is stepping down as PSC chairman before the year ends.
He was appointed commissioner in 2000 and served as interim PSC chairman from November 2004 to June 2005 when former swimmer Eric Buhain was transferred to the Games and Amusements Board.
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