A well-placed source told The STAR yesterday that Malacañang offer, which was made as early as two months ago, goes way beyond sports and in fact has all the trimmings of a big political strategy.
Dodot, son of cager-turned-senator Robert Jaworski Sr. and husband of equestrian champion Mikee Cojuangco, the other day confirmed the Malacañang offer, but he politely turned it down because he’s planning to run for a congressional seat in next year’s elections.
Now here’s the catch.
Because of his popularity and that of his immediate family, Dodot, who also played for the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), is being considered the top favorite in the coming congressional race in Pasig City — against the son of a high-ranking Malacañang official.
Offering Dodot the PSC chairmanship, and if ever he changes his mind and accepts it, would keep him out of the elections.
"It’s as simple as that. If Dodot accepts the offer, then he’s out of the congressional race. This would easily favor the other candidate," said the source.
The PSC has its back against the wall, with its top officials being accused of graft and corruption. A case stemming from the illegal importation of racehorses in favor of another Malacañang personality, and just recently a delay in the allowances and salaries of national athletes and PSC employees are not helping the current PSC administration either.
Malacañang ordering a revamp, starting with Buhain’s ouster, is therefore quite justifiable.
Buhain, the former swimming sensation, has his own strings attached with Malacañang, his father-in-law being a member of the Cabinet. His wife is a member of Congress.
But the fact that the PSC chairmanship was offered to Dodot, at his expense, only means that Buhain is not untouchable.
Dodot thanked Malacañang for the offer then added that he can serve Philippine sports even without the PSC chairmanship. He then advised Buhain to look at the issue as a wakeup call and reflect on the shortcomings of his administration.
"Chairman Buhain should look doubly hard at what he’s done for Philippine sports in his 636 days in office," said Dodot in a statement released to the media.
In response, Buhain said, "Salamat sa advise niya (I thank Dodot for his advise)."