"I SEE medals in 2018, also a gold in the Olympics," Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman William "Butch" Ramirez when asked about the prospects of Philippine sports in the coming years.
The agency chief said this as he expressed confidence that the PSC's partnerships with different government agencies and local government units thrust towards grassroots development and the Philippine Sports Institute would all contribute towards the betterment of elite athletes and future ones. "But we all have to work hard. If we work together despite the issues we can do better."
“We have also collaborated with local government units and signed partnerships with the Department of Education to promote sports to our children,” added Ramirez who is also looking forward for a tie-up with the Commission on Higher Education next year.
He was also upbeat on funding for NSAs. Ramirez shared that the PSC Executive Board has agreed to “have an annual budget for NSAs in 2018 which they would then use towards their elite athletes. We would like NSAs to perform better and work better and improve the whole performance through this budget.”
PSC executive director lawyer Sannah Frivaldo, also shared the development on the rehabilitation program for the aging Rizal Memorial Sports Complex and the PhilSport Complex.
“As we end the year, several Senators have expressed their commitment in supporting the rehabilitation of our sports facilities. Although these are not yet enough, we are relentless in our efforts to raise funds and reach our target,” Frivaldo said.
Asked about the PSC's stand on the Philippine Karatedo Federation controversy, Ramirez said that they have handed the investigation to the National Bureau of Investigation as they are more adept on the matter. Ramirez assured that support to the athletes will continue despite the issues, "Hindi naman ang mga atleta ang iniimbestigahan."
Commissioner Ramon Fernandez was also on hand and clarified rumors that he egged the athletes to file a complaint against the PKF.
"They were already decided when they approached me. I was in Cebu that time. Somebody just sent me a copy of the letter." Fernandez said.
The letters being referred to are the written complaint of karatedo athletes who alleged that they only got an equivalent of $470 instead of the $1800 they signed.
PSC Commissioners Arnold Agustin, Charles Maxey, Celia Kiram were also present in the press conference.