Mikee says leadership change in POC ‘long overdue’

With the current situation of Philippine sports, Rep. Mikee Romero (1Pacman Party-list) yesterday reiterated his call for the overhaul of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) leadership so that the dream of winning the ultimate prize – an Olympic gold – will come closer to realization.

“With the sad state of Philippine sports, change in the POC leadership is long overdue,” said Romero, vice chairman on Youth and Sports Committee in the Congress.

Since the POC General Assembly has approved the election on Friday, Romero said he’s praying the national sports association (NSA) heads will be enlightened that this is the right time for a fresh start.

“We need new direction, new energy, and renewed focus. It is time for a fresh start,” said Romero.

Romero cited that after 13 years, the country has produced only one Olympic medal – a silver courtesy of weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz in the Rio Games.

In the Asian Games – also in the span of 13 years – the country collected a measly eight golds, 13 silvers and 29 bronzes.

The Philippines won a record 113 golds in 2005 due to a hosting advantage but the entire sporting community was shocked with the country’s anemic showing in the 2007 edition of the biennial meet that saw the country win only 41 golds.

Ten years after – in the Kuala Lumpur Games – the Philippines struggled and netted only 24 golds.