Cojuangco welcomes Senate probe

MANILA, Philippines - Philippine Olympic Committee president Jose “Peping” Cojuangco yesterday welcomed the Senate move to investigate the controversy that hounded the RP cycling team in the recent SEA Games in Laos.

“It’s all on record. So, what’s there to worry about?” said Cojuangco, reacting to the proposed inquiry on two-time SEA Games gold medalist Marites Bitbit’s failure to compete in last month’s biennial competition.

Bitbit, winner of the cross country and road race gold medals in 2005 and 2007, missed her three events in Laos after she signed a withdrawal letter in sympathy to her 12 other teammates who were not allowed to compete.

“This is an opportunity to set the record straight. It’s something that will put everything in order,” he said.

Jose Romasanta, the POC spokesman, said the letter of withdrawal was agreed upon by the entire cycling team in Laos, and he hoped that Bitbit will help the Senate clear the issue.

“I hope she tells the truth,” said Romasanta of Bitbit.

The 12 cyclists had no license from the Union Cycliste Internationale because they belonged to an association only recognized by the POC, and it was only Bitbit who carried the UCI license when they went to Laos.

The group headed by Tagaytay City Mayor Bambol Tolentino is the one recognized by the UCI. Amid the confusion, Bitbit signed the withdrawal letter along with the entire team but later claimed she was forced to do it.

Now, Sen. Pia Cayetano, a health buff who’s into triathlon, wants the Senate to look into the controversy.

“I will not hesitate to recommend to the Senate Committee on Sports to find out whoever is guilty of not performing their functions. This is a disgrace to us as a nation because our cyclists were unable to compete,” she said.         – Abac Cordero