SMC donates P50 million for POC projects

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Olympic Committee got a big shot in the arm in the form of a P50 million donation from San Miguel Corporation COO Ramon S. Ang.

Ricky Vargas, who was elected POC president last February, said he was left speechless after receiving the check from Ang, better known as RSA.

Vargas called on the SMC big boss and SMC sports director Alfrancis Chua together with POC secretary-general Patrick Gregorio at the SMC headquarters in Mandaluyong.

Initially, the POC chief had expected to receive a donation of P20 million. But to his surprise, the giant check that was presented read P50 million.

“I was pleasantly shocked and momentarily speechless,” said Vargas.

“We really didn’t expect this. The P20 million was already generous, but the additional P30 million really highlights the commitment of San Miguel and Mr. Ang to Philippine sports,” he added.

Ang said SMC firmly believes in the value of sports and its very important role in developing the nation’s character.

Chua said SMC decided to increase the donation from P20 million to P50 million as a sign of support to the leadership of Vargas at the POC.

The SMC donation comes in the heels of the country’s participation in the 18th Asian Games in Indonesia in August.

However, POC spokesperson Ed Picson told The STAR that the money may well be spent in other POC projects since the Philippine Sports Commission will fund the Asiad campaign with the help of the private sector.

The POC is also gearing up for the country’s hosting of the 2019 Southeast Asian Games as well as the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

The donation should help the POC as it tries to implement its plans and programs that will benefit the Filipino athletes.

Since assuming leadership at the POC, Vargas has received support from the Philippine Basketball Association, with all 12 teams chipping in P500,000 each, as well as the MVP Sports Foundation of Manny V. Pangilinan with P20 million.

Vargas said the donation from SMC couldn’t come at a better time.

“I am beyond grateful,” said Vargas.