Andam, SEA Games billiards gold medalist, 55

MANILA, Philippines - News of Leonardo “Dodong” Andam’s death left a pall of gloom inside the billiards hall as the 2014 Philippine National Games entered its sixth day yesterday.

Andam, a multiple gold medal winner in the Southeast Asian Games, reportedly died during  a motorcycle ride on his way from Iligan City to Ozamis City the other day.

The 55-year-old veteran of the 2006 Doha Asian Games played in a tournament in Iligan City. He is no longer part of the national team.

The talk inside the billiards hall of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex said Andam, who’s a fisherman from Mindanao, suffered a stroke while back-riding the motorcycle with a friend.

“We only learned of his death through text messages. We haven’t heard from him for a long time now,” said two-time SEA Games champion Iris Ranola.

“I think the last time he was part of the Philippine team was in the 2006 Asian Games. Nakakalungkot pa din,” said Ranola, adding that they’re passing the hat around for Andam.

Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richie Garcia was saddened by news of Andam’s death.

“We share the sorrows of his family,” said Garcia.