NSA elections after POC's, says Peping

If given a chance, Philippine Olympic Committee president Jose Cojuangco Jr. would urge the different national sports associations (NSAs) to elect their officers after the POC holds its own elections.

“I think it would be better if the elections within the NSAs follow the POC elections,” said Cojuangco, who is seeking a second term and a fresh four-year mandate in the POC elections on Nov. 28.

Art Macapagal, the shooting president, is challenging Cojuangco, the equestrian president, for the presidency. Both camps claim to enjoy the majority needed to win – at least 21 of the 40 voting members.

So close to the elections, six NSAs, including swimming, archery, wrestling, wushu, karatedo and badminton are facing problems as to who can run or vote in the coming elections on their behalf.

Problems with these NSAs cropped up because, constitutionally or otherwise, they held elections heading to the POC elections, which are held every four years, and the results are mostly contested.

Some NSAs hold their elections on an annual basis, while some hold them every four years. Cojuangco said maybe it’s about time for all these NSAs to have a uniform set of constitution and by-laws.

“These NSAs should hold their elections after the POC elections. And once the POC officers are known then NSA officials can also adjust their positions.

“So those who will be elected are those who they feel can work better with the POC officers. This will ensure a more harmonious working relation. If given the chance I will propose that to the NSAs,” Cojuangco said.

Cojuangco said the run-up to the coming elections has been bumpy, and most of the anxiety could have been avoided if the NSAs freed themselves of politics or leadership problems close to the elections.

Cojuangco can only hope that nothing more disturbing would come up in the final week heading toward the elections, set at the Ayala Alabang Country Club at 2 p.m. on Nov. 28.

“I cannot say that there won’t be any problems. During an election, problems always come up,” he said, amid reports that certain quarters might resort to TROs (Temporary Restraining Orders) to be thrown against those whose right to run or vote are being questioned.

“I hope it does not happen. Because if it does, then we’re in for bigger problems like possible suspension from the IOC (International Olympic Committee) because of government intervention,” said POC spokesman Jose Romasanta.