No easy job ahead for RP’s pride in two SEA Games

The voice on the other line was ecstatic, like when The STAR first broke the news to him Monday that he will be the next Philippine Sports Commission chairman.

But yesterday’s STAR phone interview with the new man at the helm of Philippine sports revealed more than (him) being in the state of overwhelming emotion. He was riveted yet excited, stirred yet thrilled and gripped yet enthusiastic.

"Actually, I was expecting more definite information (on my status) this weekend, but since you told me that I was already appointed (this morning), I’m thrilled and so happy," said Eric Buhain.

The name is akin to sports. Who can forget his amazing six-gold medal performance in swimming during the 1991 Southeast Asian Games here and a total of 15-gold medal haul in five SEAG participation?

A TOYM (Ten Outstanding Young Men) awardee in 1991, Buhain also became a member of the US NCAA All America team in that same year and graduated Cum Laude with a degree in BS Finance at La Salle Philadelphia.

He was the first and only back-to-back winner of the Most Outstanding Male Athlete award handed out by Coca Cola in SEAG competitions in 1989 and 1991.

Even after his heyday as an athlete, Buhain’s remained involved in sports and this he graphically represented when he led the march of athletes to demand the ouster of then PSC chair Aparicio Mequi in 1993.

But bringing honor, respect and glory to the country as an athlete is one thing. Doing the same as chief of the sports agency primarily tasked to look for the welfare of the athletes is another.

"For sure, it will be tough. Unlike before, this will not be for personal gain or honor but for the country’s glory," said Buhain, at 32 will be bringing in the exuberance of the youth to the agency racked by internal wranglings, rifts, intrigues and politicking.

Foremost in his agenda is "to bring back the glory days of RP sports" while at the same time address the athletes’ plight and ensure that their basic needs are met, like food, clothing, equipment, shelter and accommodation.

"They (athletes) can be assured that I will not only be their chairman but also a co-athlete. Kung baga sa magkakapatid, ako ang tatayong kuya ng mga atleta, ng mga malilit," he said.

But first things first

. And the first step Buhain would take is to have an audience with outgoing PSC chief Carlos Tuason, see the house, assess the situation and get briefed on the condition of RP sports.

"Since this is a holding year (for 2001-2002), I need to know and get briefed on reports of the sports programs, the achievements in 2001 and what’s in store for this year and beyond," said Buhain, who assured that all athletes, students and practitioners in sports will be able to train and compete in the highest level under his watch.

Because this would give him the ultimate high.