by Nick Giongco
Athletics chief Philip Juico is being groomed to run for the presidency of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) when elections are held later this month.
Juico, who formerly held the post of Philippine Sports Commission chairman, told the Bulletin on Saturday that he has been approached by sports leaders but has yet to commit.
“I still have to consult my family before making a decision,” said Juico, who now appears to be the frontrunner to vie for the presidency opposite resigned chairman Bambol Tolentino of cycling.
A crucial meeting involving high-ranking officials of the POC is scheduled Monday and Juico feels it will be the perfect time for him to declare if he is proceeding or not.
“I have been getting calls from people (sports leaders) who want me to run. I have been listening to them,” said Juico.
Archery head Clint Aranas seemed to be the frontrunner but owing to a technicality and his resignation as GSIS president, he suddenly became an unattractive option to seek the POC presidency vacated by Ricky Vargas starting June 17.
Juico, who is also chairman of the Philippine SuperLiga, was also Agrarian Reform secretary during the presidency of Cory Aquino.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has been advising the POC how to handle the leadership dispute gripping the country’s sporting affairs and Monday’s meeting is pivotal.
