Ex-nat’l standouts tapped to coach PH athletics squad

MANILA, Philippines – Five former national team mainstays are transitioning into coaches starting this year.

Arnel Ferrera, John Lozada, Rene Herrera, and Danilo Fresnido, all Southeast Asian Games medalists, were recently appointed by the Phl Track and Field Association as part of its 12-man national team coaching staff.

Dario de Rosas will continue to head the coaching staff that also included remnants Sean Guevarra, Luisito Artiaga, Jeoffrey Chua, Joebert Delicano Emerson Obiena and Lerma Bulauitan-Gabito.

Gone were Roy Vence, Mario Castro, Arnold Villarube, Agustin Jarina, Nixon Mas and Ernie Candelario.

Making a return after a decade-long absence is Jojo Posadas.

"It feels good to be back at helping the country discover, train and mold future national team athletes," said Posadas in Filipino.

As national team coach more than a decade ago, Posadas produced the likes of Fidel Gallenero, Christopher Ulboc, Jeson Cid and Mercedita Manipol, who have all won gold medals in the SEAG.

But due to alleged politics under the leadership of Go Teng Kok, Posadas moved on to coaching schools including Jose Rizal University, a team he steered a five-peat feat in the NCAA.

Posadas, however, said he already made peace with Go, who was succeeded last year by Philip Ella Juico as new athletics chief.

"I've already called him (Go) and apologized for all the things that have been said and done," said Posadas.