Businessman Manuel V. Pangilinan would be willing to be president of the Philippine Olympic Committee, according to one of his most trusted lieutenants.
In a statement, Ricky Vargas said his principal “would be open to lead Philippine sports, if asked,” referring to the clamor for the sports patron to run for the top POC post.
Vargas is one of the most trusted men in the businessman’s inner circle, serving on the Board of Directors of Metro Pacific and chief executive officer of Maynilad, both of which are chaired by Pangilinan.
Vargas also shares his boss’s passion for sports, serving as a representative to the PBA Board of Governors for Talk ‘N Text, as well as vice-chairman of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and president of the Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines, two national sports associations with which Pangilinan is also involved.
“He is in the best position to… bring Philippine sports to a new level of performance,” said Vargas of Pangilinan. “Time for the NSAs to speak up if they want change, otherwise let the status quo remain.”
According to a source of the Philippine News Agency, some NSA leaders gave Pangilinan assurance that he will get the necessary votes to win against incumbent POC president Jose “Peping” Cojuangco, who is running for a third term.
“Many of those on the fence have indicated they will support MVP should he declare himself available,” added the PNA source.
Vargas’ statement comes on the heels of a blowup involving the ABAP and the Philippine Sports Commission whose chairman, Richie Garcia, is a known Cojuangco ally. Vargas belied claims by Garcia that the ABAP is practicing favoritism in the selection of boxers.
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