Newly appointed Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairperson John Patrick Gregorio vowed to give his best as the head of the agency.
“There is no dead end in a dream. And our dream is more gold and service to the 110 million Filipinos,” Gregorio said during the Philippine Sports Association (PSA) Forum at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex conference hall in Manila Tuesday.
Before going to the forum, he attended the official turnover of the PSC flag with outgoing chair Richard Bachmann, who led the state sports agency since December 2022.
Gregorio’s appointment papers from Malacañang were released the other day.
“Am I excited? Yes. Am I happy? Yes. It’s very difficult to say no to the Republic of the Philippines. It will not be easy for us to play this role for Philippine sports and the people. But with the help of the major stakeholders in sports, it can be done,” he said.
“I feel grateful and privileged for the chance to rise to the occasion. I am your lucky 13th chairman of the PSC. Don’t expect anything less.”
Gregorio, who heads the rowing association prior to his appointment, wants the PSC to inspire the national athletes, provide a strong link between sports and economic development, and promote a healthy citizenry.
He also stressed the need to sustain the achievements of national athletes in the international arena, leading to three gold medals (one by weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz and two by gymnast Carlos Yulo) in the last two Olympics, as well as provide support to non-Olympic sports.
“It seems like there is always a tug-of-war in Olympic sports and non-Olympic sports. Non-Olympic sports are equally important,” Gregorio, who has also been involved in basketball and boxing, said.
He mentioned putting up a foundation to cater to Philippine sports as a whole and will discuss it with national sports associations.
“A foundation for continuous funding not just when winning. Then all those in the private sector who want to help can come together,” he said.
“In the next two years, I promise you I will do my best. That’s what I told the PSC employees. But I can’t be the only one who is tired. And if we perform well, even our countrymen will applaud us.” (PNA)
