An independent group called the Reform Philippine Sports (RPS) movement pleaded for the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) to make reforms ahead of the upcoming Southeast Asian Games.
“We, the members of the Reform Philippine Sports Movement, demand for a just and honest election for the Philippine Olympic Committee this July 28,” the group said in a statement on Wednesday.
The RPS introduced itself as “a movement of sports personalities and fans who have a growing concern over the way our leaders are handling Philippine sports.”
While the RPS described itself as “neutral,” the movement specifically expressed its concern over the group of acting POC president Joey Romasanta, citing some cases like controlling the flow of the elections and an alleged revocation of the verbal resignation of some members.
“We strongly recommend [that]… the POC General Assembly decide with finality on the controversial revocation of resignation by some members of the executive board… only legitimate member of POC must be allowed to vote,” the statement further said.
The group said national sports associations (NSAs) that “are highly questionable and illegally recognized as members” must not be allowed to vote.
The movement also called that “only qualified and competent candidates are allowed to run.”
“The coming election will be of grave importance to the future generations… We want change to happen within POC, and that change must happen now — not just for the sake of the Filipino athletes but for the future generations of Filipinos,” the statement concluded. (PNA)
