‘POC to takeover training of national athletes under NSAs that couldn’t perform duties.’

This serves as a warning to national sports association officials who are remiss on the progress of their athletes.

Olympic chief Jose “Peping” Cojuangco Jr. said the Philippine Olympic Committee would takeover the training of national athletes under NSAs that couldn’t perform their duties.

In fact, the local Olympic body has already assumed the training chores of one association, which Cojuangco refused to disclose.

“The takeover was done with the approval of the NSA leader,” said Cojuangco. “For the benefit of all concerned, we’re doing this to give our athletes 100 percent attention.”

He added that monitoring the athletes’ progress and preparation for international meets would be done in close coordination with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).

Each NSA under the POC is tasked to train their athletes for overseas competitions while the PSC provides the funding for preparation and participation.

Cojuangco said he assigned POC secretary general Steve Hontiveros to look at the other NSAs and see if their responsibilities are being carried out, including the proper way of electing their officials.

“I have asked Steve to review other NSAs and see if everyone is complying with their constitution and by-laws,” said Cojuangco. “There should be an update. The secretary general will be attending to that and call the attention of the erring NSAs. They have to comply as soon as possible.” /inquirer