Framework for POC polls laid down

With a representative from the International Olympic Committee and Olympic Council of Asia observing the proceedings, the Philippine Olympic Committee membership yesterday laid the framework for the July 28 elections intended to solve its long standing leadership squabble.

Convening in an extraordinary general assembly upon the directive of the IOC and OCA, the POC members formally approved the special polls set in 10 days’ time, appointed lawyer Teodoro Kalaw IV, Fr. Vic Calvo and Rep. Conrad Estrella to the election commission, and deliberated upon the list of eligible voting members.

IOC member Narinder Dhruv Batra attended on behalf of the IOC and OCA and expressed satisfaction on how the meeting at the Manila Golf Club went.

“I’m satisfied with the proceedings. What I came for, I’m completely satisfied,” said Batra in a press briefing with POC board member and Surigao Rep. Butch Pichay of chess, who was elected presiding officer of the crucial meet attended by 36 members.

“I think all the members discussed issues in a cordial atmosphere and I’m very happy we’ll have an election on the 28th,” he added.

The body first voted for the venue for the voting for the vacant positions of president, chairman and two board members set 11 a.m. on a Sunday, with Century Park Hotel getting the nod.

Then they also put the nominees for the Elecom into vote, with arbitration expert Kalaw emerging on top, followed by Calvo, then Estrella.