Philippines to decide on status as next host by today

THE Philippines must make a firm decision today on their status as the next host of the SEA Games in 2019.

Although reports have emanated from the Philippines on its possible withdrawal as host of the 2019 Games, there has been no official notification from its National Olympic Council (NOC).

Malaysian Olympic Council (OCM) secretary-general Datuk Low Beng Choo said yesterday that the Philippines has indicated that it will have an answer today when the SEA Games Federation (SEAGF) Council meets in Kuala Lumpur.

“When the report ( of the Philippines’ possible withdrawal as host) came out, its NOC had asked for some time to make a final decision. Tomorrow (today) is the deadline.

“I am sure that cool heads will prevail. After all, it is their turn,” she said after chairing the SEAGF rules and sports committee meeting.

Beng Choo said that should the Philippines withdraw as host, they have an alternative in Thailand.

Philippines Olympic Council secretary-general Steve Hontiverous, who was also at the meeting, explained that his country had not officially withdrawn from the host job.

“My NOC president is flying in for the meeting ( council) tomorrow (today) and we will have a decision then. I do not want to be presumptive about it. Let’s wait for it,” he said.

On questions whether Malaysia will be a candidate for the host job since facilities are already in place, Beng Choo said that “this issue will not arise”.

“No, the SEAGF goes by turn and we offer it to the next nation in the line. We are way down the pecking order.

“Like I said, it will be Thailand’s turn and they are ready for it. 2019 will have a host come what may.”