Literal wouldn’t be in the thick of the action if not for Go. If Go tells Literal to back off right this minute, Tiny would. That’s how influential Go is. He’s the power behind several National Sports Associations (NSAs) agitating for reform.
As for Puyat, the word is if he’s ultimately recognized as BAP President, he’ll serve for a few months then give way to a credible successor. Puyat’s choice is Philippine Long Distance Telephone Chairman Manny Pangilinan who incidentally, was voted BAP Chairman in the same POC-sanctioned elections that delivered a fresh mandate to good, old Spar. Puyat’s goal is to make sure the BAP is left in good hands.
Aside from Literal, Go’s allies include Graham Lim (who was BAP Secretary-General until the POC deigned to bless the recent elections that brought Puyat back on the throne and reinstalled Nic Jorge as Secretary-General), former Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Popoy Juico, former national basketball team manager Dr. Fernando Carrascoso, former POC President Cristy Ramos, and the unsinkable Col. Julian Malonso.
Go is also supported by Asian Basketball Confederation (ABC) President Carl Ching Men Ky of Hong Kong and ABC-Secretary-General Yeoh Choo Hock of Malaysia because of their common Chinese heritage. Go’s connections are strong. And he’s got the resources to fight a protracted war.
Go was on Dayrit’s side when Ramos was ousted in a coup some years back. So a reconciliation isn’t a remote possibility. After all, they were once allies. However, it’ll take a lot of pride-swallowing to get them together again.
The mess that the BAP finds itself in could’ve been averted if only Dayrit and Go made peace after the POC elections.
Go is clearly the aggressor in his battle to disparage Dayrit who’s largely been on the defensive. Sources close to Dayrit accuse Go of sowing intrigue among the NSAs to destabilize the POC and discredit the leadership. They call it "organized confusion."
Go is a streetfighter who could be Dayrit’s best friend or worst enemy. He’s after Dayrit’s scalp and that personal agenda has wrought havoc on Philippine sports – the BAP, being the first victim.
The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) suspension of the BAP was inevitable. The situation had become untenable, if not ridiculous. The POC recognizes Puyat as BAP President but the ABC recognizes Literal. The POC is affiliated to the IOC while the ABC is linked to the FIBA which in turn, is IOC-sanctioned.
Something’s got to give to break the lock.
PSC Chairman Butch Tuason has offered to mediate. POC Chairman Robert Aventajado is doing his bit, too. But until Dayrit and Go decide to end their personal war, no solution is in sight.