Wednesday, September 03, 2008 Councilor’s word on PSC lashes back; City criticized
CEBU City Councilor Edgardo Labella has been hit by local sporting enthusiasts for his remarks directed at the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) but the councilor just wants to express the importance of a solid sports development program.
After the Philippines turned in zero medals in the Olympics, Labella authored a resolution that urges the PSC to evaluate the sports program, apparently after hearing reports of incompetent sports managers, poor training modules and substandard equipment that.
He also suggested that the funds be handled by people who are “competent, dedicated and most of all, above suspicion.”
This had irked some groups, who lashed back at Labella for making these comments when he “does not even show concern” about the local sporting scene.
“I welcome those comments. But I believe it is important for someone to care about these issues and make a stand.
“The performance of the Philippines in the Olympics is a reflection of how bad the sports program of the whole country is. Sports development should be a concern of every individual,” Labella said.
“It is a suggestion that the national governing body should have a more comprehensive program and should set aside more budget for sports,” he added.
Labella said he is not denying that they, as government officials, sometimes aren’t supporting the local athletes enough and feels it is time to change
“It is high time that all of us evaluate ourselves. How much are we helping and if it is enough.” (MCB)
