Philracom: Dialogue, consultation key to growth

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Racing Commission moved immediately to address concerns aired by the three horseowner organizations – Marho, Philtobo, and Klub Don Juan de Manila – after they weighed in with their comments on handicapping rules.

The horseowners made suggestions regarding rules on going down of imports and local-breds, numbering of the class divisions of horses, and guidelines on special races.

Their concerns were promptly taken up by the Commission at their regular Board meeting that same week, and action taken on the issues raised.

“The Commission consults industry stakeholders on major industry issues,” said Philracom chairman Andrew Sanchez. “This is in line with the present administration’s policy on transparency and good governance, where we aim for collegial decisions when it is practical and appropriate, in order to boost industry growth.”

The horseowners appreciated the swift response on their requests.

Philracom holds regular sectoral meetings at which various industry stakeholders – horseowners, trainers, jockeys, racing clubs, off-track betting station owners, and other groups – meet to discuss issues, find solutions to problems, and brainstorm strategies to meet challenges facing the sport.

As such, it is one of the government agencies that actively engage stakeholders in dialogue for the benefit of all.