Eala vows to continue grassroots program, take care of athletes

Ed Andaya

Sep 9

NEWLY-appointed Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Noli Eala yesterday formally accepted the challenge of leading the government sports agency to greater heights in the coming years.
In a formal turnover ceremony held at the PSC Main Grounds in Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Eala received the PSC flag from former Chairman William "Butch" Ramirez to symbolize the passing on of leadership.
Among those who witnessed the turnover ceremony right after the agency's flag-raising ceremony were PSC Commissioner Olivia "Bong" Coo, Executive Director Atty. Gullermo Iroy, Management Committee members, PSC heads and employees and the media.
"I wish to thank Chairman Butch Ramirez for coming over today. He is someone I always believed to display the leadership of a true public servant. Quiet yet firm and dedicated. He just told me that he was there to help us. And what he has done for this commission will forever be remembered. Maraming Salamat po Chairman Butch." said Eala, who will serve as the 11th chairman of the government sports agency since its inception in 1990.
"We would like to thank Chairman Ramirez for his successful leadership during his last six years. Maraming maraming salamat po and we wish you all the best. God go with you in your new journey and we're always here to support you too."
Eala also lauded both Coo and Iroy.
"I wish to thank Commissioner Bong Coo for taking charge of the agency for the past few months. Without you, I'm sure it would have been harder for us. I also wish to thank Atty. Iroy for his invaluable help."
Said Ramirez: "Four years of working, two years disturbed by the pandemic. It was a meaningful journey. Chairman Noli Eala needs our help, our support. For, if he succeeds, Philippine Sports Commission will succeed, and Philippine sports will succeed."
Among the immediate plans of Chairman Eala are:
--Complete the board membership.
--Ensure that we are able to complete the mandate of the PSC.
--Ensure that all national athletes are getting prepared for 2023 competitions.
--Continue grassroots programs that will be extensive in partnership with various agencies.
--Give the national athletes their benefits, to care for the athletes and to make sure that they will be provided with everything that they need so they can be successful.
--Select the best parts of Project Gintong Alay and make sure that it is modernized to the current situation.
--Ensure equality in support to regular athletes and para-athletes. Robert Andaya