OSMENA'S SPORTS SUPERBODY PLAN OPPOSED
Manila, Feb. 21, 1998 - Philippine Olympic Committee president Cristina Ramos-Jalasco expressed opposition to presidential candidate Lito Osmena's proposal for a "sports superbody" to control sports in the country.
"We are alarmed at this proposal because sports is largely governed by non-government organizations. The autonomy and independence of these bodies are guaranteed by the International Olympic Committee. As such, sports should be allowed to operate in a free and open manner with minimum government intervention, as is done in the business sector," Jalasco said.
The daughter of President Ramos pointed out that "it is strange that something already private should be run by the government."
However, Jalasco acknowledged the role of government in implementing sports programs especially at the grassroots level, where she said the government could be more effective than at the elite level, which the Philippine Olympic Committee and the National Sports Associations are already handling.
"Government should be more concerned about using sport to promote health and fitness and to address social problems," she added.
Reported by: Sol Jose Vanzi
© Copyright, 1998
All rights reserved