Navasero steps down as baseball president

MANILA, Philippines - Hector Navasero has decided to step down after serving as president of the Philippine Amateur Baseball Association for more than two decades.

“I’ve been president for PABA for 23 years now – I feel I did my part in helping the sport and it’s now the right time to let somebody take over,” Navasero said during the Philippine Olympic Committee general assembly last Wednesday at the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club.

The PABA election will be held April 19.

Navasero, who is reportedly going to be named chairman emeritus, said he would recommend Ely Baradas, his long-time vice president, to run for the top post.

“I think he’s the right guy to replace me,” said Navasero.

Baradas has a track record of maintaining baseball, softball and slo-pitch teams.

Navasero’s announcement, however, could open the door for baseball officials who helped in the revival of the sport.

One of the names that cropped out as possible Navasero replacement is Baseball Philippines’ Chito Loyzaga.

Loyzaga was one of the organizers of Baseball Philippines, which has put up the first professional league.

“If we’ll be given a chance to help, we’ll help for the good of Philippine baseball,” said Loyzaga.

Philippine Tot Baseball Foundation president Rodolfo “Boy” Tingzon Jr., was also being mentioned as a possible candidate for the top post. – Joey Villar