PH to host SEA anti-doping meeting

MANILA -- The Philippines will host the Southeast Asian Regional Anti-Doping Organization (SEA RADO) 2019 Board Meeting and Doping Control Officer (DCO) Training Course from Feb. 20 to 22 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.

Dr. Alejandro Pineda, head of the Philippine Anti-Doping Organization (PHINADO), described the board meeting and training as a "milestone event".

"We have adopted the anti-doping movement but there is still more to be done,” Pineda said in a statement.

Pineda said the PHINADO, which is directly the Philippine Sports Commission chairman’s office, has been making joint efforts and proactive role in fulfilling the country’s obligations under the 2015 World Anti-Doping Code, the UNESCO International Convention against Doping in Sport, the World Anti-Doping Agency and SEA RADO strategic development programs.

"The board meeting and training presents a good opportunity for SEA member countries to share and learn more about the challenges in our region and our respective roles and responsibilities imposed by the 2015 Code and Convention,” Pineda said.

Considering athletes across the region are preparing for the forthcoming SEA Games to be hosted by the Philippines, we need to ensure that all anti-doping stakeholders work together to implement effective programs to protect the rights of clean athletes," he added.