PSC seals pact with Indonesia

MANILA, Philippines - Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richie Garcia has welcomed the memorandum of understanding which he signed with the Indonesian Sports Ministry.

Garcia, who was part of President Aquino’s entourage to Indonesia last Tuesday, yesterday said the agreement will open a lot of doors for the Philippines.

“It’s the cooperation between two governments with regards to sports technology, anti-doping and sharing of coaching expertise,” said Garcia.

“In return, they wanted to know how we can help them in boxing,” he added.

The Indonesians, according to the PSC chief, look up to Manny Pacquiao as the world’s greatest boxer, and also have high regard for the Filipino amateur boxers.

“Yes, they know Pacquiao, and that he’s very popular in Indonesia,” said Garcia.

A major part of the agreement is the strengthening of the anti-doping program of both countries because it runs with the International Olympic Committee’s approach.

“The IOC wants everybody to be more vigilant with their anti-doping programs,” Garcia added.

He said aside from Indonesia, the Philippines is hoping to forge or strengthen sports ties with powerhouse countries like Russia, China and Cuba.

“The Cuban ambassador has invited me for a visit. And Australia has also signified their help,” said Garcia.

“It’s good that every country wants to help the other. Especially here in Southeast Asia where the countries share a common bond, trying to lift each other up in the sports standings,” said Philippine Olympic Committee president Jose Cojuangco.