Tuesday, January 23, 2007 Talk with Fiba a huge success
AFTER the conclusion of their meeting with representatives from Fiba, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) head Manny Pangilinan is optimistic that the Philippines is on its way to return as a member of good standing in the international basketball body.
“Congressman (Gullas), we just finished our round of meetings here with Fiba in Geneva. The last one included Fiba president Bob Elphinston and Boris STankovic. Excellent meetings. I believe we are on our way towards accreditation. Please help us ensure the Unity Congress on Feb. 5 is truly successful,” Pangilinan told Gullas in a text message.
Gullas, who used to sit as vice president of the Basketball Association of the Philippines (BAP), forwarded the message to Sun.Star.
The congressman also lauded the RP delegates in Geneva for their effort to have the Philippines’ ban from international competition lifted.
“Great work, your sacrifice and Senator Estrada’s have paid off,” Gullas replied.
Aside from Pangilinan and Estrada, who was booted out as BAP president last month, the delegation included PBA chairman Ricky Vargas, PBA commissioner Noli Eala and PLDT’s Al Panlilio.
“We came to Geneva to report personally to Mr. Baumann what the three-man Panel has accomplished so far in accordance with the Tokyo Agreement as well as to open direct communication lines with the FIBA. I am happy to report that we have achieved both.” Pangilinan said in a press statement.
Meanwhile, the beleaguered BAP has received another blow after Dumaguete decided not to hold BAP’s National Inter Schools Championships next month.
The move comes after BAP’s director-spokesman Fritz Gaston resigned from his post.
According to a report in a national daily, Negros Oriental Sports and Cultural Facilities Management Board co-chair Glynda Descuatan said they did not want to hamper SBP’s move in uniting the different basketball groups of the country. (ML with PR)
