SEA games in peril

MANILA, Philippines — Refusing to be sidetracked by the politics of intrigue, POC president Ricky Vargas yesterday called on opposing sports officials to resolve their differences and get back on track in working together to assure the smooth staging of the coming Southeast Asian Games here for the sake of the country and Filipino athletes.

In the last few weeks, various sports officials have traded barbs in media accusing each other of causing delays in preparing for the 11-nation conclave on Nov. 30-Dec. 10. Disgruntled NSA heads aligned with the former POC administration took advantage of the tenuous situation to disparage Vargas, hoping to create dissension within the ranks in a malicious agenda.

“I don’t want to be involved in politics,” said Vargas. “Let’s stop destroying each other. There are three different cultures involved in staging the SEA Games – PHISGOC (Philippines Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee), PSC and POC. When we launched this journey, Secretary Alan (Cayetano) of PHISGOC, chairman Butch (Ramirez) of PSC and I pledged to work as one and win as one. We’ve encountered problems along the way, issues about venues, funding. They’re problems that can be fixed if we work together. Withdrawing from hosting the SEA Games is not an option. We’re not quitters. This is a commitment to our country, our countrymen and our athletes. By hook or by crook, we’ll get this done and done well. It’s too late to withdraw. I recognize there are issues but let’s fix them instead of giving up. We’re expected not only to stage a successful hosting but also to perform in competition.”

Vargas said questions about PHISGOC’s authority to stage the SEA Games should be put to rest. “We’ve adopted Secretary Alan’s PHISGOC model,” he said. “POC gave PHISGOC the authority to organize the SEA Games. I didn’t create PHISGOC. It was formed by the previous POC administration. POC has supported PHISGOC but continues to suggest improvements in governance, especially in the procurement process. We don’t just criticize.”

Vargas said bickering and finger-pointing must stop. “We’re running out of time,” he said. “Unfortunately, we’re delayed in training our athletes. Other countries started training months ago. Our athletes are waiting for the full release of the budget so they can get on with training. We need the money now. Government will determine the budget for the SEA Games. From P7.5 Billion, I understand it will go down to P6.5 or P5.5 or P5 Billion. I don’t really know what to expect. The issue of who will control the money is an area of serious concern. Let me be clear – POC is not interested. We only ask that our NSAs be properly supported and in a timely manner. We have to move now, work together and give our athletes the support they need and deserve.”

Vargas said athletes should be shielded from politics. “They’re now training with less than optimal support,” he said. “Airing dirty linen in media creates apprehension among them. Let’s keep them excited and committed, not apprehensive. Whatever internal problems we have, let’s solve among ourselves. PHISGOC, PSC and POC have their responsibilities and all we need is to work as one. Sadly, we are now at odds. It’s difficult enough that I have people in the POC Board who cannot move on or accept my leadership style. I will, however, continue to try and win them over.”

Vargas said he has met with Cayetano and will sit down with Ramirez today to iron out issues and concerns. “We can get this done, para sa bayan,” he said. “I call on all NSAs to remain steadfast. Your leadership will see this through. While it’s taking time, training money will come. We will succeed. Don’t let naysayers affect your training and focus. Team Philippines, let’s get those podium finishes in the SEA Games.”

Vargas said he has continuously updated the POC Board on matters pertinent to the SEA Games. “If there are people who are reluctant to cooperate, I cannot just sit and do nothing,” he said. “There are five kinds of people in the expanded POC Board I have to deal with. First, those who do not attend. Second, the ‘experts’ who seem to know everything and claim to own the monopoly of truth. Third, those who cannot let go of the past. Fourth, those who are with you but are actually players. And fifth, those who have adapted and are truly helpful. I’m optimistic that this last group will slowly get bigger.”