MANILA, Philippines - Philippine Sports commissioner Joaquin “Chito” Loyzaga yesterday continued to evade questions on reports that he is being eyed as the possible replacement of resigned Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas executive director Noli Eala.
“If I was the one, I would have answered your question right now,” said Loyzaga. “But it looks like it’s not me because to tell you honestly no one is talking to me right now.
“Maybe it’s (Renauld) Sonny Barrios,” Loyzaga added.
Barrios, the former PBA commissioner, is, of course, the other name that came out as possible successor to Eala thanks to his rich experience with the play-for-pay league aside from his fatherly demeanor, which is a perfect fit to the high-profile national sports association.
There were also reports that a third candidate, Bernie Atienza, the deputy executive director who was an integral part of the transfer of power from the Basketball Association of the Philippines to the SBP, is also part of the shortlist of potential Eala replacements.
Smart Sports chief Patrick Gregorio was the federation’s original executive director.
Loyzaga, whose experience as former commissioner of the defunct MBA, PBL chairman and now PSC commissioner should serve him right in case he gets the official appointment, may end up staying at the government sports-funding agency.