PSC chief to NSAs: Be truthful

MANILA, Philippines - The have-money-will travel scheme will not be in play for the Philippine delegation to this year’s SEA Games in Singapore.

“We’re looking at a different system,” said Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richie Garcia.

In the past, athletes who failed to meet the criteria but insist on competing in the SEA Games are allowed in provided they fund their own trip.

The athletes, whether in individual or team events, are made to look for their own sponsors. In some cases, the expenses are reimbursed by the PSC if the athlete or athletes win a medal.

This time, the PSC is thinking of funding the trips of the athletes who insist on their inclusion in the delegation.

But if they fail to produce the medals, whatever the amount that is spent on them will be deducted from the budget of their respective NSA (national sports association) next year.

Garcia said chef-de-mission Julian Camacho made the suggestion, and the Philippine Olympic Committee under Jose Cojuangco is looking at it.

So far, there are 400 names in the Philippine delegation, with more than 50 athletes from water polo, floor ball and men’s volleyball seeking inclusion.

The final deadline for the composition of the delegation as required by the Singapore organizers is on April 1.

“Before, even the parents of the athletes can spend for their trips. And if they win medals, they are reimbursed,” said Garcia, adding that the practice leads to a bloated delegation.

“It’s either they spend for themselves or look for sponsors. Then if nothing happens, the NSAs don’t take any responsibility because they did not spend for it,” said Garcia.

“This time, the expenses will be deducted on the budget of the NSA. The responsibility will fall on the NSA. They will be held accountable,” he added.

It will discourage the NSAs from insisting on the inclusion of certain athletes with no chances of winning.

“Because whatever they spend will be deducted on their budget for next year. I hope the NSA officials will be truthful to themselves if the athletes are qualified or not,” said Garcia.

The PSC, he added, has earmarked P33 million for the SEA Games participation in June.