NEWLY-appointed Philippine Sports Commission chairman Noli Eala sat down with top officials of the Philippine Olympic Committee last Monday night and described it as “a very good start” for his administration.
“I was there to listen,” Eala said of the meeting that was attended by POC chief Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, first vice president Al Panlilio, second vice president Richard Gomez and treasurer Cynthia Carrion-Norton.
“It was really a social call and it was very courteous. Majority of the POC board (members) were there. We discussed some basic things that have transpired in the past,” Eala said in yesterday’s Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum.
Eala is fully aware that a harmonious relationship between the PSC and the POC, including the different national sports associations, is a key element that would ensure the success of Philippine Sports.
The former commissioner of the Philippine Basketball Association said he intends to keep and improve that relationship that has led to resounding victories, highlighted by Hidilyn Diaz’ gold-medal feat in the Tokyo Olympics last year.
“I think it was a good start. It shows a united front and it shows cooperation,” Eala added of the dinner meeting also graced by POC auditor Chito Loyzaga, board members Dr. Raul Canlas, Pearl Managuelod and Dave Carter, legal counsel Atty. Wharton Chan and deputy secretary-general Bones Floro.
Next up for Eala is to meet with the athletes themselves.
“That is part of my priorities. I’m making the request and hopefully hold a general assembly so I can talk to them. We will take care of our athletes,” he said.
The new PSC chief, who received his appointment papers from Malacanang last Aug. 30, has work cut out for him beginning with next year’s SEA Games in Cambodia and Asian Games in Hangzhou, and the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
