Literal, Lim get fresh mandate in BAP elections

Officials of the Basketball Association of the Philippines were given a fresh mandate when they were re-elected during the BAP National Congress held yesterday.

The Congress, which was attended by BAP regional directors, commissioners, coaches, athletes and representatives of the BARECOM, also tackled issues affecting the association and the various programs for the year 2004.

"We come from different regions but our goal is the same: to continue the uplift of amateur basketball in the country," said BAP president Quinteliano "Tiny" Literal. "This fresh mandate ensures the continuity of our programs and gives us the confidence to move on and meet the new challenges that will come our way."

Literal also reminded the assembly that the BAP remains the only legitimate basketball association and decried the attempts of other groups to undermine its authority.

"The BAP is the only basketball association recognized by the FIBA and we can and we will never allow other groups to wrest that authority from our grasp," Literal said.

The body also unanimously approved the new BAP logo, a multi-colored representation of the association’s ideals. Incorporated in the logo are the tri-colors of the Philippine flag.

BAP secretary-general Graham Lim later presented the BAP’s accomplishments for the past year, which was highlighted by the partnership forged between the BAP and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) for a grassroots program.

Executive vice president Christian Tan discussed the ongoing programs of the association, including the "Tryouts ng Bayan", "Tuklas Taas" and the Six Footers Basketball Program and other future plans of the BAP.

From Manila, the BAP delegation will proceed to Lucena City for the opening ceremony of the 58th National Students Championship set March 1-7 at the Quezon Convention Center in Lucena City.