VOLUME 2 No.1 | JAN - MAR 2017 , PHILIPPINE SPORTS COMMISSION NEWSMAGAZINE

PSCRelaunches

PSIPAGE 4

PSI’s Playground Manila hosts Reliving the to Podium SEA GAMES Glorious Program Baton Run Past PAGE 9 PAGE 14 PAGE 16

January - March 2017 | PSC NEWSMAGAZINE 1 EDITORIAL The CHAIRMAN Speaks

hen the Philippine Sports Com- gram of the national sports agency - all these and able production. With your hardwork and perse- PSI, a big hope for mission (PSC) News Magazine was more have been in- verance, this magazine will continue to bridge the conceptualized when I returned as cluded in this PSC to the Filipino sports community. ChairmanW under the administration of President year’s first Rodrigo Roa Duterte last year, we were all excited q u a r t e r To the readers, be inspired on the stories of our na- about making it a quarterly publication. maga- tional athletes and be fully informed of what your zine. national sports agency has been doing to address PH sports Government protocols, however, such as the te- the directive of President Duterte in bringing dious bidding and procurement procedures I thank sports to the periphery. became the setback that we did not earlier foresee the ed- “There is a big hope for us,” Philippine search Identification (Smart ID) Train the funds be used for Filipino tangible sports in making the quarterly magazine realized. itorial The PSC, with the Board of Commissioners at Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Wil- Trainers Program in key cities in the first even in far-flung areas. board the helm, will continue to strive to live up to its So after two editions released last year, we are only a n d Sports for All mantra. liam “Butch” Ramirez said when the Philip- quarter even as requests to conduct con- coming out with the first quarter edition - four t h e pine Sports Institute (PSI) was relaunched sultative meetings, coaching clinic, sports Thus, with PSI focusing on sports science, months later than its supposed April release. On con- Madayaw! last January 16, 2017 in a fitting ceremony summits, sports science seminars and behalf of the editorial board, we apologize for the tributors high performance training of elite ath- delay of the first and second quarter editions of the for com- William I. Ramirez at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City. Smart ID Train the Trainers, among oth- letes and strengthening grassroots sports PSC News Magazine. ing out with Chairman, PSC ers, keep coming in since the relaunch. this laud- development programs, Evasco said, “We Rest assured that what happened was just part of The PSC chief said the PSI relaunch was have high hopes that a stronger grassroots the birth pains expected of any endeavor. just the start of bigger and greater things The courageous move by the PSC, under will contribute to the prevention of drugs This new edition is a good read. for Philippine sports although admitting Chairman Ramirez, was lauded by Pres- among the youth, we must precisely engage From the relaunch of the Phil- that the journey has been and will still be idential adviser on sports Dennis Uy and ippine Sports Institute (PSI) our youth. We want them to stay away from rough and difficult. Cabinet secretary Leoncio Evasco, Jr. who to Olympian marathoner drugs and other harmful things.” Mary Joy Tabal’s quest for both graced the inaugural ceremony that a Southeast Asian (SEA) Indeed, there is hope for the Filipino youth was attended by over 1,000 national ath- Games gold and re- Uy, for his part, pledged to raise P1 billion launch of the PSC Hour in every corner of the country as a lean- letes and coaches, PSI coordinators, na- from the private sector to augment the radio program; as well but-mean team of PSI started planning tional sports association (NSA) representa- as a revisit to the PSC funds of the PSC, particularly in support- Museum, various programs to reach out to areas that were tives, media and other stakeholders. ing the programs of the PSI in the regions. plans and programs never given a chance in the past. of the PSI, gener- Evasco underscored PSC’s full strategic al assemblies of The PSI, with national training director athletes, 27th A PSC caravan toured Luzon, Visayas and thrust in line with President Rodrigo R. anniversary Mindanao to kick off the revival of the Duterte’s plan to bring sports to the coun- Marc Edward Velasco at the helm, may still celebration of be walking baby steps after its rebirth but the PSC, the Physical Fitness and Sports Development tryside. PSC Cara- Council (PFSDC), which was created by Chairman Ramirez and the PSC Board of van and the relaunch virtue of Executive Order No. 63 of former The PSI, according to Evasco, gives sports Commissioners are doing a good job in of the La- President Fidel V. Ramos on March 1, 1993, the institutional support it deserves as a parenting it as President Duterte and his ro’t Saya sa in a bid to help ensure the implementation center of excellence for the advancement of Cabinet are also all-out in supporting the Parke, the Play and of the PSC’s “Sports for All” program. “human national pride in accordance with institute. Learn for the president’s grassroots change”. He also Free pro- PSI also held Sports Mapping Action Re- reiterated the president’s directive that all

2 PSC NEWSMAGAZINE | January - March 2017 January - March 2017 | PSC NEWSMAGAZINE 3 ship, said Evasco.

Presidential Adviser on Sports Dennis Uy vowed

to tap the private sector to raise P1 billion to aug-

ment the budget for the athletes.

“Philippine sports has many ailments and PSI will

be the prescription. It will provide the sports nu-

tritionists, psychologists, physiologists, doctors and

other medical professionals, as well as top-of-the-

line equipment to cater to the needs of the athletes,”

announced PSC chairman William Ramirez in his

welcome address.

Hosted by PSI deputy national training Prof. Henry

Daut and Mr. Raul Manlapaz, the highlight of the program

was the Athletes’ and Coaches’ Oath of Support to PSI led by Cab-

inet Secretary Evasco for the government

sector, Presidential Adviser Uy for

the private PSC Relaunches PSI sector, Barcelona Olympics boxing bronze medalist Roel Velasco BY MYLENE V. CONCEPCION for the coaches and Rio Olympics weightlifting sil-

ver medalist Ms. Hidilyn Diaz

Clad in myriad shades of blue, the Multi sig City. Evasco Jr., in his keynote address, under- for the athletes. Purpose Arena bore witness to the finest scored the government’s commitment to hour of the future of Philippine sports. Attendees were treated to a brief introduc- grassroots development with sports as a tion of the PSI through an audio-visual pre- viable tool in turning the youth into pro- As early as 2:00 pm, government officials, sentation by PSI national training director ductive citizens. private sector, the national athletes, coach- Marc Edward Velasco, Kata demonstration es, heads of sports associations, media and by Karatedo and a song number by Imusi- “We have high hopes that grassroots de- other stakeholders came to support the capella. velopment in sports should encourage our Grand Inaugural of the Philippine Sports youth in productive activities, develop their Institute at the PhilSports Complex in Pa- Guest of honor Cabinet Speaker Leoncio inter-personal skills and a sense of citizen-

4 PSC NEWSMAGAZINE | January - March 2017 January - March 2017 | PSC NEWSMAGAZINE 5 conducted in , Parañaque City, and other locations outside such as Vi- gan City, Baguio City, Imus, Kawit, Aklan Province, Boracay, Iloilo City, Bacolod City, Cebu City, Du- Tabal maguete City, San Carlos City, Davao City, Tagum City, and General Santos City.

The program is being implemented under the PSC’s Sports-for-All Agenda. Its legal basis is Presidential Memorandum Circular No. 49 which was signed Gears up by then President Benigno S. Aquino III on July 4, 2013.

The Sports-for-All Agenda is geared towards the belief that fitness does not only involve muscles, for SEAG speed, and endurance; it also highlights positive values such as discipline, dedication, and determi- BY KARLO PAOLO R. PATES nation. Sports has helped people overcome unexpected Chairman Butch Ramirez awarding raffle prizes to participant with Mayor Janella Ejercito Estrada adversities and challenges, as well as compliment o aspire to be one of the top Filipino paring for the tough 42k race, Tabal physical fitness and promote character-building. marathoners is indeed never quite an is also conditioning her mind on how Tabal, who earned an automatic slot to the SEA Games easy feat. An athlete must exert relent- to overcome her fears during the race. with her four-peat feat in last year’s Milo Marathon More importantly, Sports-for-All is communi- lessT effort, full-time dedication, and sharp focus National Finals, said her family has been her source Play and Learn: ty-based and encourages maximum participation on trainings as well as willingness to trust the “Iniisip ko kung makakaya ko pa ba yung takbo of strength all throughout her journey as an athlete. in sports among the greatest number of Filipinos. process before all the success can be achieved. (I always overthink whether or not I can fin- As she readies herself for the SEA Games stage, Sports for Free in 2017 Aside from providing accessibility towards sports ish the race),” Tabal, who earned both of her Tabal thanked Jonel Borres and Motorace Phil- by various sectors of Philippine society, it empha- This is the dream that the Philippines’ Bachelors degree in Management Accounting ippines for supporting and believing in her. BY ABIGAIL MARIE V. RIVERA sizes the importance of the grassroots and its role top marathoner Mary Joy Tabal hopes and Master’s degree in Public Administra- in the continuous development of sports in the to fulfill at some point of her career. tion in Southwestern University in Cebu, said. “Hindi ko alam kung saan na ako ngayon kung hindi or 2017, the Play and Learn: Sports for Free eficiary of Play and Learn: Sports for Free is an- country. This has been her mindset as she prepares dahil sa tiwala and suporta nila. Pagbubutihin ko para program is staged every Saturday at San Juan chored on the rationale that, as the primary unit for her stint in the Southeast Asian Games “It’s a long distance race that deals manalo tayo (I won’t be here as Mary Joy Tabal with- City and every Sunday at Luneta Park. The of society, the family serves as the anchor of a As PSC plans to launch the program across the FPhilippine Sports Commission (PSC) launched person’s full development and character. Active in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia this August. with mental toughness,” she added. out their support. I will do my best to win),” Tabal said. country, local government units who wish to adapt this program on February 12 at the Pinaglabanan participation in sports is boosted by support and When asked about her daily practice rou- and implement the program for 2018 may send a Park in San Juan City, and PSC plans to launch encouragement from the family. “I just want to see myself competing with top tine while in Italy, Tabal shared that she is formal letter of intent to the PSC. athletes from different countries in big sport- training with the Uganda’s and Italy’s na- and conduct the program in 32 areas across the Sports that have been featured for the past four ing events,” said the 27-year-old daughter of tional teams for the long distance event. country within the next few months. years include aerobics, arnis, badminton, box- Participants in the dance fitness (Zumba) session Rolando, a retired police, and Annabelle Tabal. “Thank you City of San Juan for partnering with ing, chess, foot- Tabal, who became the country’s first woman “We train twice a day, one in the morning the PSC in launching this project here. Thank ball, karatedo, representative in marathon at the 2016 Summer and one in the afternoon. I also undergo ex- you for recognizing the importance of an active running, sepak Olympics held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, said her fo- aminations here with the help of their sports lifestyle for the people,” PSC Chairman William takraw, taekwon- cus is centered on her upcoming SEA Games stint. science experts. This is to determine what pos- I. Ramirez said during his speech. Mayor Janella do, volleyball, sible injuries can occur and how to prevent Ejercito Estrada was also present during the event. wushu, dance “My preparations for the Sea Games are go- them. Injuries can happen if our body’s too fitness (Zumba), tired or overworked,” she said in vernacular. ing well. I’m here in Italy now to condition What is this Play and Learn: Sports for Free all and groundball and prepare myself for the competition,” Tabal about? (for senior citi- said in a Facebook interview with this writer. Although she’s not yet 100 percent ready for zens). the competition, training in a different coun- Formerly named Laro’t Saya sa Parke, it is a park- Tabal, along with Eric Shauwn Cray, try helps her prepare better as an athlete. based program that encourages people of all ages Since its first are considered as the top medal pros- OLYMPIAN marathoner Mary Joy Tabal of the to try and participate in sports. It targets Filipino staging at Lune- pects in the biennial regional meet. “My focus now is how to get better every day. It’s Philippines trains with Uganda's top eight female families who visit parks together on weekends and ta Park in 2013, Tabal said she will be competing in the women’s also nice that I train with foreign athletes and marathoner Juliet Chekwell in preparation for her wish to engage in sports and play. Play and Learn: learn from them through their experiences in stint in the Southeast Asian Games in Kuala Lumpur, Sports for Free marathon, a race that covers over 42,192 kilometers. Malaysia this August. MARY JOY TABAL PHOTO While the pride of Guba, Cebu is pre- different international competitions,” Tabal said. The focus on the Filipino family as the main ben- has also been

6 PSC NEWSMAGAZINE | January - March 2017 January - March 2017 | PSC NEWSMAGAZINE 7 ders the development of a Waza (technique), AGUM CITY-- Erika Prieto did not using a technique or maneuver that poses a have an idea when she took part in risk injury to the opponent, refusing to attack, an extra-curricular activity outside adopting an excessively defensive posture, PSI’s Playground to In focus: JUDO herT school, that she will be among the very first feigning an attack without actually intending to follow through, etc.] and Hansoku-make, participants of the Philippine Sports Institute’s a major penalty infringements of the rules. (PSI) talent identification program. This initia- BY CHARLENE MAE G. CABIGAN Four shidos results in the award of ippon to tive of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Podium Program traditional Japanese wrestling sport, tied with the correct style of knotted belt. the opponent, as does one hansoku make. is meant to discover future national athletes. BY ALLAN M. GATCHALIAN Judo was created in 1882 by Dr. Jig- Fights last five minutes for Men and 4 minutes for oro Kano. Dr. Kano initially studied Judokas must not employ any of the outlawed Women and are won when one judoka is award- Twelve year old Erika, may be slim, a bit tall Ajujitsu but wanted to focus more on the spir- techniques, including attacking joints (other mates participated in the whole day event. the SMART ID. This is designed to teach PE ed ippon. Ippon is when a judoka throws their for her age, frail-looking, traits which may be itual and educational aspect of the sport. By opponent out their back. Ippon wins the fight than the elbow), punching or kicking oppo- teachers how to measure the physical and per- removing the dangerous jujitsu techniques at any time and can be gained by immobilizing nents, touching the opponent’s face, or in- discounted by others. However, all these phys- The day before, Physical Education teachers and formance related-skills kids ages 8 to 16. This and improving the art of falling, he developed tentionally injuring the opponent in any way. the opponent. If no ippon is awarded, the play- ical attributes cannot be discounted in talent other selected school-based personnel where is only phase one of PSC-PSI’s National Grass- Ju – do which translates to “the gentle way”. er with the highest score at the end of the bout identification. These are the very guides that The sport is dominated by the Japanese, fol- trained by PSI’s Monitoring Team together with roots Development Program. is declared the winner. If the scores are level, the PSI look out for in identifying the sport a child The sport debuted in the Olympics in To- match is decided by a period of Golden Score lowed by the French and then the Koreans. Prof. Josephine Joy could excel in. kyo in 1964 for the Men’s division and in (overtime period) then – if still not resolved – For PSI National Director Marc Edward Velas- Barcelona in 1992 for the Women’s division. the decision of the referee and corner judges. Philippine Judo Federation Inc. is the official The morning session go about measuring the Reyes, who teaches human kinetics at The Uni- co this program is more than discovering new National Sport Association (NSA) of Judo There are two types of penalties in in the Philippines and is a member of the In- judo, Shido, a mi- ternational Judo Federation (IJF). Kiyomi nor penalty [such Watanabe of the Philippine Judo National as excessive Team is currently rank 27 in the Wom- passivity, en Seniors -63 kg category in the IJF using a World Ranking. She won Gold in the technique recent Asian Judo Open 2017 in Taipei. or maneu- ver that Paris Grand Slam 2017, -63 kg, BRONZE hin- GBR RENSHALL vs PHI WATANABE (c) Mayorova Marina Sitting height measurement Standing height measurement Upper body strength measurement by ball throw for performance test Paris Grand Slam 2017, -63 kids standing and sitting height, weight and versity of Sto. Tomas. They were taught how to kg, TRSTENJAK Tina, arm-span in batches, followed by a warm-up properly gauge a pupil’s anthropometric mea- talents as “sports can be a vehicle for human de- AGBEGNENOU Clar- session after lunch break and then the perfor- surements and how to conduct a performance velopment because it can create a good citizen Judo Fundamentals isse, WATANABE Kiy- mance test, where the school children’s speed, omi, PINOT Margaux test. Participants of this event are all from the that follow rules,” He was thankful for the stu- endurance, upper and lower body strength are There are 7 weight categories, starting (c) Sabau Gabriela Davao Region. dents, their PE teachers and principal for their from extra-lightweight to heavyweight measured. invaluable contribution to the event. for both Men’s and Women’s divisions. Sources: https://www. One of them is teacher Prisselda Calero of Ate- olympic.org/judo Erika is sharing this opportunity with school- neo de Davao University. Teacher Prisselda For Erika and Angelo, this may just be a day Judo matches take place on tatami (mats) https://www.ijf. mate Red Angelo Cansawan, 13, who was was happy to take advantage of the opportunity away from school. They may not even aware measuring 14m x 14m, with a combat area org/history measured to have the highest recorded vertical of 10m x 10m marked out within it. Judo- http://www. which taught them the basics of talent identifi- of the impact of their participation in PSI’s jump in the group. This is despite his small stat- kas (athletes) must bow before stepping onto rulesofsport.com/ cation for free. SMART ID program in their lives. Who knows? the mat and must bow to each other be- sports/judo.html ure and slender body appearance. We may see They may become one of our sports champions fore and after either practice or competition. http://www.ju- a champion high jumper of him in the future. The PSI’s “Train the Trainers” Program is in in the future, and they will go back to this mo- do-ch.jp/english/ Both are students of Jose Tuazon Jr. Memorial Judokas must wear the appropriate gi (uni- line with the Sports Mapping Action Research ment when they knew they had what it takes to National High School, in Tagum City, Davao forms), which is one that is no more than Talent Identification Program or cleverly called become winners. 5cm above the ankles and wrists and is del Norte where 48 more others of their school-

8 PSC NEWSMAGAZINE | January - March 2017 January - March 2017 | PSC NEWSMAGAZINE 9 the National Sports Associations (NSAs). LGUs contains the request for the Office of the PSC GOES This is the first time na President to intercede on behalf of the Commis- The participants of the one-day meeting bumaba po ang PSC sa amin, sion for the release of its five percent share from were also updated on the latest programs “ sa LGU, para ihatid ang the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Cor- LuzViMin FOR and plans of the Philippine Sports Institute poration’s (PAGCOR) gross income pursuant to (PSI) and all other forthcoming projects of the programa nila at Section 26 of Republic Act 6847. STRENGTHENED Commission. para marinig naman The Manifesto was jointly proposed by Tagum Chairman Ramirez with Comm. Arnold G. kami sa LGU. City Mayor Allan Rellon and Kidapawan City GRASSROOTS SPORTS Agustin, Comm. Ramon S. Fernandez, Comm. Mula po sa amin, Mayor Joseph Evangelista. Mayor Rellon, who Celia H. Kiram and Comm. Charles Raymond A. is also the Executive Vice President for League maraming salamat po, BY MICHELLE S. BALUNAN Maxey attended in these meetings, taking turns of Cities of the Philippines, also proposed for in the presentations of vital topics to the par- the group to request the Department of Interior -LGU Representative ticipants. and Local Government to include sports devel- vation of PFSDC, sports programs of the PSC he PSC long-awaited initiative from the PSC. “ opment as another criterion for its Seal of Good will reach even the smallest towns or cities. launched They were also present in the panel answering “This is the first time na bumaba po ang PSC Governance program to enjoin LGUs in promot- a series of queries and concerns of the participants during sa amin, sa LGU, para ihatid ang programa nila ing sports development in their respective com- “Without the participation of the LGUs, we Tdirectional meet- the open forum conducted at the end of every at para marinig naman kami sa LGU. Mula po munities. cannot prosper, we will not be able to execute ings with the gov- directional meeting. sa amin, maraming salamat po,” said one of our grassroots program well,” PSC Chairman ernors, mayors, the LGU chiefs who attended the directional The PFSDC acts as a nationwide organizational Ramirez said. sports coor- Various problems on sports program implemen- meeting. network to assist the PSC in planning, informa- dinators and tation, lack of budget, coordination with NSAs, tion and dissemination , actual implementation The directional meetings were held in differ- Local Gov- conflicting sports clubs and institutions were just The highlight of the directional meetings was and monitoring of the National Policy and Pro- ent parts of the country, well attended by the ernment Unit among the concerns raised and subsequently ad- the Expression of Commitment of all LGUs gram of ‘Sports for All’. It covers all stakeholders LGU chiefs and representatives as well as their representatives dressed by the PSC Board of Commissioners. relative to the reactivation of the PFSDC. in the country, from the barangay, city/munici- sports coordinators and directors. all throughout pal, provincial, regional up to the national level. Luzon, Visayas and Min- The directional meeting in every region is a The Manifesto of Support from Mindanao The activity started in Cebu City on March 14 danao on the Reactivation for the Visayas region; Davao City on March 16 of Executive Order No. 63 for the Mindanao region; Naga City on March or the directive Creating 21 for the Bicol region; Talisay City, Batangas the National, Provincial, on March 23 for the CALABARZON/MIMA- City, Municipal and Ba- ROPA regions; Baguio City on March 28 for rangay Physical Fitness the North and Central Luzon areas; and Ma- and Sports Development nila City on March 30 for the National Capital Councils (PFSDC), as Region. well as Executive Order No. 64, Adopting the Na- The directional meeting also paved the way for tional Policy and Program the discussion on the overview of PSC’s func- of Sports for All, both tions and responsibilities as the government signed on year 1993. sports arm, its difference from the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), being a private Through PSC’s partnership institution and the umbrella organization of with the LGUs in the reacti- Participants of the PSC directional meeting.

10 PSC NEWSMAGAZINE | January - March 2017 January - March 2017 | PSC NEWSMAGAZINE 11 As One: PSI Boosts National Team General Assemblies Basista and Navotas BY MALYN P. BAMBA Anti-Drug Sports lose to a thousand national athletes The national team was treated to and coaches graced the first two Gen- a mini-concert featuring popu- eral Assemblies called for the na- lar band Itchyworms. Program tionalC team by Philippine Sports Commission Chairman William Ramirez last February and The second assembly was a March. BY MYLENE V. CONCEPCION “catching-up-with-each-other” NAVOTAS CITY The first assembly was a pep-rally and kind of event, with the athletes “Sa pamamagitan ng PSI, naramdaman co, the City Council and the Navotas mini concert to gather support for our fielding questions to the Board namin ang suporta ng gobyerno sa aming Anti-Drug Abuse Council initiated the national team which shall be compet- of Commissioners in an open pagbabago.” Summer Sports Camp 2017 last April forum. Ramirez reiterated his ing in the Southeast Asian Games this - Drug Surrenderee featuring Arnis, Karate, Judo, Pencak call for the national athletes to August. It was also a way of informing Silat and Taekwondo. focus on their training, “we will BASISTA, the athletes of the agreements forged be- tween the PSC and the National Sports support you, do not worry about PANGASINAN The opening rites were attended by PSC Associations in a directional meeting politics.” Commissioner Celia Kiram and PSI held in Tagaytay in January. “It has to It was a warm day in March, but the start somewhere, and we start as early as Both events were held at the rousing welcome was warmer. It was Director Marc Edward Velasco at the now. The Olympics is not a stand-alone Philsports Complex in Pasig the first day of the Drug Recovery and Navotas Sports Complex. competition. The SEA [Southeast Asian] City. Youth Sports program in Basista, Pan- tary; Basketball, Volleyball, Table Ten- Games is our first stop in this journey.” gasinan. Philippine Sports Commission nis and Zumba - Basista Gymnasium; Issues and concerns on the focus sports Ramirez furthered that the PSC shall Ramirez, upon seeing the enthu- (PSC) Chairman William Ramirez and Sepak Takraw – Basista Municipal Hall. and activities were discussed in the continue to support the national team siasm of the athletes and coach- Philippine Sports Institute (PSI) Direc- Consultative Meeting attended by sports despite the issues. “We are all united in es on getting the chance to inter- tor Marc Edward Velasco graced the “We are thankful to the PSC for bringing stakeholders. our dream for that elusive Olympic gold. act directly with the Board gave opening ceremonies at the Basista Gym- the coaches here, for helping us with our PSC will support you!” Ramirez said in instructions to make the GA a nasium. anti-drug campaign. Soon, we will have Resource speakers were Dr. Gemima addressing the national team. quarterly gathering of the na- scholarship for the athletes as we go to- Valderrama, Dr. Serge Opeῆa and Dr. tional team. Spearheaded by Basista Municipal May- wards the development of sports in Navo- Eduardo Fernandez. Program facilitator or Manolito de Leon and Sports Officer tas.” Ms. Girlie Ramirez, the event was at- - Mayor John Reynald Tiangco was Prof. Henry Daut. tended by more than 600 trainers, ath- letes and sports enthusiasts. 103 drug “This Summer Camp will enhance the surrenderees attended the Drug Reha- skills of the children to a higher level of bilitation talk by Mayor de Leon and competition through the scientific ap- Psychologist Dr. Cely Magpantay. proach of PSI. And will help them be- come winners, not only in sports but in PSI Deputy Director for Grassroots the game of life.” Prof. Henry Daut served as facilitator of - Councilor Clint Geronimo the program. With the end view of keeping their Sports clinics were held in the following constituents, especially the youth, venues: Badminton - Dumpay Elemen- away from drugs, City Mayor Tiang-

12 PSC NEWSMAGAZINE | January - March 2017 January - March 2017 | PSC NEWSMAGAZINE 13 the 29th staging of the SEA Games. In his 2016 to 2020 in which we aim to promote ment over the staging of the SEA Games speech read by Malaysian Ambassador to the ASEAN spirit through sporting activi- Rising Together Baton Run as it signifies the Philippines Dato Raszlan Abdul Rashid, ties. the friendship between Southeast Asian Malaysia Minister for Youth and Sports Y.B. neighbors. Brig. Gen. Khairy Jamaluddin said the Ma- “It is heartening to see this aspiration being nila leg of the Baton Run truly showed the brought to life in the lead-up to KL 2017,” “In behalf of the Filipinos, in the spirit of friendship among Southeast Asian nations the Malaysia Minister said. true friendship, we are willing to continue which organizers of the 2017 SEA Games the journey of rising together as ASEAN,” want to imbibe in their hosting of the bien- Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Ramirez said as he drew cheers from the nial sporting meet. William ‘Butch’ Ramirez expressed excite- audience. The ASEAN spirit in sports will come to It was also mentioned in the speech that life when the SEA the Baton Run symbolizes the celebration Games takes of unity and shared values of the Southeast place on Au- Asian nations. It emphasized that as host gust 19 to 30. of KL 2017, Malaysia is pleased to have in- troduced this initiative as it is very much in line with the ASEAN Work Plan on Sports

Manila hosts SEA GAMES Baton Run BY AIZZABELLE ROSE R. TERRADO

he Southeast Asian Games Rising the Baton Run last March 12 which cul- another. Together Baton Run staged in Ma- minated in front of the Cultural Center nila was the second of a 10-part of the Philippines (CCP) in Manila were It was a festive atmosphere at the CCP Tseries of legs that promotes the upcoming Olympic silver medalist Hidilyn Diaz and Grounds where activities such as free zum- staging of the SEA Games which Kuala Paralympic Games bronze medalist Jose- ba sessions were arranged as people waited 2017 SEAGAMES Mascot “Rimau“ Lumpur will be hosting. Prior to the stop in phine Medina. for the runners to cross the finish line. Manila, Brunei Darussalam hosted the first leg last March 5 before Laos (March 18), The Baton Run was organized for the first Excitement filled the air as the runners led Myanmar (March 25), Thailand (April 1), time in the history of the SEA Games and by PSC Commissioner Ramon Fernandez, Vietnam (April 9), Timor Leste (April 17), ASEAN Paragames, where the course cov- Diaz, and Medina finally arrived at the fin- Cambodia (April 22), Indonesia (April 30), ered iconic places in capital cities. For the ish line. and Singapore (May 13) took their turn in Manila leg, the starting line was held in conducting the Baton Run. front of Malacañang Palace, and, in the A press conference was later held at The course, there were stations in which the Sofitel to update the media on the latest Among the thousands of people who joined baton was passed on by one contingent to in Malaysia’s preparations in its hosting of

14 PSC NEWSMAGAZINE | January - March 2017 January - March 2017 | PSC NEWSMAGAZINE 15 Reliving the Glorious Past BY AIZZABELLE ROSE REYNALES-TERRADO he Philippines’ rich sporting history Nepomuceno, and Efren “Bata” Reyes. along M. Adriatico Street, it showcases some of sports history through various memorabilia. the first gold medalist Arianne Cerdena and other historical sports items. Upon initial has been highlighted by elusive yet the most precious sports memorabilia of Fili- (1988, bowling), bronze medalists Stephen collection, a Unified Sports Exhibit was built much celebrated Olympic wins and But apart from these popular sports and their pino athletes and National Sports Associations. A few of the treasures currently on display at the Fernandez and Bea Lucero (1992, taekwon- at the PSC administration building for public Tnotable performances in the international are- icons, our country’s distinguished perfor- Sports Museum are prized possessions by the do), and medalists from the Wushu team, viewing and to kickstart the project in 2008. na. From our first international competition via mances in international sports competitions This endeavor was pioneered by the ad- following Filipino Olympians: pre-war bronze led by a gold from Willy Wang (2008). As the collection of memorabilia grew, so the 1913 Far Eastern Games held in Manila to deserve better recognition and representation. ministration under William I. Ramirez medalists Teofilo Yldefonso (1928 and 1932, was the need for a bigger space. The PSC recent silver medal win in the 2016 Rio Olym- in his first term as PSC Chairman from swimming), Simeon Toribio (1932, high jump), Filipino medalists in international sporting chanced upon a vacant office space at the pics, the country has indeed come a long way. To go beyond mentions in textbooks and oth- 2005 to 2009 and then-Support Services Jose Villanueva (1932, boxing), and Miguel events such the Southeast Asian Games and PNB Building nearby, and found a place er media, one corner of the historic Rizal Division Chief Carmencita R. Velasco. White (1936, 400m low hurdles). Together with the Asian Games also have their special spot to house the growing collection and to ac- Milestones of our world-class Filipino ath- Memorial Sports Complex has been dedi- them are other memorabilia of modern-day in the museum. Memorabilia from legendary commodate a larger number of visitors. letes are not just limited to popular events cated to the Filipino athletes’ achievements. Efforts to create a sports museum began in boxing bronze medalists Leopoldo Serrantes and world-renowned Filipino athletes such such as basketball, boxing, bowling, and bil- The Philippine Sports Museum, as it is called, response to Republic Act (RA) 8757, co-au- (1988) and Roel Velasco (1992), and silver as Rafael Nepomuceno, Bong Coo, Lydia de As the Commission’s archives continue to liards. We have achieved international rec- is bound to widen the horizons of Filipi- thored by former senator and Filipino bas- medalists Anthony Villanueva (1964) and Man- Vega, Elma Muros-Posadas, Mikee Cojuang- expand, Filipino athletes remain unstop- ognition in many other sports, but these no sports fans and to make current and fu- ketball icon Robert Jaworski. This RA called sueto ‘Onyok’ Velasco Jr. (1996). And current- co, and even professional boxer Manny Pac- pable in their quest for international rec- achievements are not widely-known or are ture Filipinos proud of our sports heritage. for the establishment of the Philippine Sports ly, weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz, the first Filipina quiao are included in the museum’s exhibits. ognition. Our recent Olympic win has tru- at least unfamiliar to the common Filipino. Hall of Fame, “to enshrine the Filipino athletes, Olympic medalist, clinched a silver in the 2016 ly inspired our nation’s future athletes. Unknown to many, the Philippine Sports Com- coaches and trainers who have distinguished Summer Games. Their biographies and career All of these are seen in the museum. The PSC This may be due to lesser mainstream me- mission is maintaining what is perhaps the themselves in their particular field of sports.” history are also featured in the said displays. built its archives through donations of former As we look forward to more victories, dia coverage and lack of recognizable icons biggest collection of sports memorabilia in the Hence, the Philippine Sports Museum was athletes and their relatives, with hard-work- let us celebrate the Filipinos who paved such as Carlos “Caloy” Loyzaga, Emman- country through the Philippine Sports Museum. envisioned to feature the biographies of no- Also featured are Olympic medal- ing PSC employees even travelling to provinc- the way and relive their glorious past uel “Manny” Pacquiao, Rafael “Paeng” Located at the second floor of the PNB Building table Filipinos in sports and to showcase our ists from the exhibition sports such as es just to obtain medals, trophies, uniforms, through the Philippine Sports Museum.

16 PSC NEWSMAGAZINE | January - March 2017 January - March 2017 | PSC NEWSMAGAZINE 17 Management in Financial Institutions “It was really a great honor and a blessing to summer break. Equipped now with much-needed experience and last February. represent Philippines in the Olympics. I’m innate skills, Lariba is more than ready to embark Lariba, who hails from Cagayan de Oro also grateful to God for this blessing and most This lady is not afraid of challenges, much on her new quest to win that Another City, carried the country’s flag with especially to my family, coaches, and supporters less of setbacks. She faces them with medal for the Philippines. pride during the 2016 Summer Olym- who were there from the start supporting me,” positivity and mental toughness. pics in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. said the daughter of Antonio, a sales marketing supervisor, and Imelda, a private employee. Especially after her stint in the Woman’s Lariba did this after topping the wom- Olympics, Lariba’s and the Phil- en’s singles event of the But the bemedalled paddler from La Salle is not ippine Table Tennis Federation’s International Table Tennis Federation content with this as she strives to prove that she efforts to put the sport of table tennis on the top have been recognized.

Tough “Nakakataba rin ng puso na narerecog- nize na din yung table tennis. I’m just very blessed and thankful,” Feat she said. BY KARLO PAOLO R. PATES Lariba with fellow Rio Olympian Hid- ilyn Diaz on the day the lat- ter efying all the odds and obstacles that won Silver medal in Weight- come her way. lifting. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO This is what fuels the 22-year-old OlympianD and table tennis paddler Ian “Yan-yan” Lariba as she tries to emulate the historic feat “Sumasali po ako ng mga national competitions she had accomplished for being the first Filipino for exposure. Then this coming May 29 to June 6, Olympian in table tennis. sasali po kami ng world championships sa Germa- ny for international exposure,” Lariba said. It’s never easy, according to Lariba. But she’s willing to go through all tough hurdles again just She is now training three to five hours from Mon- to experience giving honor to her country in the day to Saturday with the coaching staff. Olympics. (ITTF)-Asian Olympic Qualification in April can make it again. 2016 and became the first Filipina to qualify in The three-time UAAP Most Valuable Player But she also admits that she needs more time and “Motivation ko talaga ngayon na sana maka- the Summer Games. (MVP) who also led DLSU’s table tennis team preparation before she can say that she’s ready for pag-produce kami ng medal for the women’s team to three championships is gearing up for her Sea Games. and individuals division kasi more than 30 years Although Lariba fell short in her first stint in participation in the Southeast Asian Games nang di nakapagmedal sa women’s division. Of the Summer Games when she succumbed to (SEA) Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia this “More preparations pa talaga and kailangan espe- course, gusto rin namin ipakita na may ibubu- Congo’s Han Xing in four sets of the opening August. cially sa consistency and mental toughness,” added ga ang mga Pilipina ngayon pagdating sa table game of the 31st Summer Games, she’s still Lariba said she’s presently joining in local and Lariba who learned the ropes of table tennis when tennis,” said the De La Salle University (DLSU) thankful for that once in a lifetime opportunity international competitions for exposures before she was nine years old when she was encouraged standout who recently graduated with a degree in to represent the country. the Sea Games. by her parents to do “something new” during

18 PSC NEWSMAGAZINE | January - March 2017 in service to five years, every employee who came this far truly deserved recognition for the years of service to the Commission. Just what the loyalty awardee for 20 years, Mr. Rodolfo Caparas once said, “tyaga lang”.

To give extra flavor to our 27th year, we also had the most exciting raffle draw. Winners received differ- ent electronic gadgets and gift checks.

There were also group presentations where various offices worked with teams and gave their best to demonstrate their creative skills and performance in line with the theme.

Seven groups performed their best but the champions of the night was the group that consisted the Office of the Chairman, Of- fice of the Commissioners, Office of the Executive Director, Board Secretariat, Legal Affairs Office and the Security and Janitorial Coordinator. & counting It was a night of recognition and BY CRISTINA M. GARCIA honor for the years of the Philippine Sports Commission and the men and wenty-three days after the start of the tion and effort for the welfare of the Filipino women behind its continued success. new27 year, Philippine Sports Commis- athletes and the Philippine sports in general. For some employees, PSC is not only a workplace sion (PSC) celebrated its 27th year In celebrating the 27th year, looking back and but also their second home through the years. withT not just stories of sports victories and de- recognizing the achievements and hard work Some may come and go, but others preferred to feats, but also a vibrant history full of sacrific- of the former Chairmen and the Agency’s long stay. Like Mr. Epifanio Cordero Jr. Project Devel- es, perseverance, difficulties and a firm vision serving employees were given importance. opment Officer III, who has been with the Com- of the Philippine Flag flying high in various mission for 25 years. As I asked him about what international arenas. It was a rare moment to see the vari- made him stay in the PSC for that long, his face ous Chairmen of the government sports seemed to lightened up and shared “First, dahil “Pagmamahal sa Bayan sa pamamagitan ng body come together and toast to the con- sa pamilya because PSC is my means of liveli- Sports” was the heart of the 27th Anniver- tinuous success of Philippine sports. hood. Second, pagmamahal sa opisina, tinu- sary Program of the PSC in the Vikings Ven- Together with the new Board of Commission- lungan ako ng PSC maka graduate ng Masteral ue, SM Mall of Asia on 23 January 2017. ers headed by Chairman William I. Ramirez ko sa AIM, package na ang PSC para sa akin”. Along with the conquered finish lines or beat- were former PSC Chairmen Ricardo R. Garcia, en records of our Philippine National Team are Harry C. Angping, Eric R. Buhain, Philip Ella As an appreciation for the years of their hard the officials and employees of the Commission Juico, Aparicio Mequi and Jeric Hechanova who work, the Board of Commissioners also hon- The PSC Board of Commissioners with Chairman Ramirez who also share the same amount of dedica- represented his father, Mr. Cecilio Hechanova, ored the PSC Loyalty awardees. From 25 years

20 PSC NEWSMAGAZINE | January - March 2017 January - March 2017 | PSC NEWSMAGAZINE 21 EDITORIAL BOARD ven in the era of internet, tablets and laptops, radio is still the most popular Chairman form of media in far-flung areas. PSC Hour William I. Ramirez EThis prompted the Philippine Sports Commis- The Power Trio Commissioners sion to revive the weekly PSC radio program Administrative, Finance and Management Services Bureau Arnold A. Agustin BY ELIAS S.SAMORIN that featured the news from amateur sports – be it the latest medal haul of our national ath- Ramon S. Fernandez he Philippine Sports Commission has officers of the agency. From the administration Ticks Anew Celia H. Kiram its two bureaus with their respective of former Chairman Harry Angping, then for- letes or an update from our sports officials. Charles Raymond A. Maxey functions for the agency’s everyday op- mer Chairman Ricardo Garcia until the present With the attention of the PSC geared towards eration.T One of this is the Bureau on Admin- Administration of Chairman William I. Ramirez, BY MYLENE V. CONCEPCION bringing sports to the farthest barangays, radio Executive Director istrative Finance and Management Services the Management Services Division has been kept is a golden tool. Atty. Carlo E. Abarquez which has been headed by Director Merlita in her leadership. PSC Chairman R. Ibay for the past 7 years. Under her guid- William Ramirez EDITORIAL STAFF ance are the three Division Chiefs, namely Ms. Under her supervision are the following offices; recognizes the im- Imee B. Cajandab for Accounting Division, Ms. Personnel, Procurement, Property, Cahiers’, Re- portant role that Editor-in-chief Anna Christine S. Abellana for Management cords and the Information Systems Unit. Her di- media plays in our Ronnel O. Abrenica Services Division and Atty. Guillermo B. Iroy vision has the most office and units under it. She society. “We have Jr. for the Budget Division. has a lot on her plate, yet she manages to work to think of ways to Managing Editor effectively. Proving once and for all that dedica- Malyn P. Bamba Ms. Anna Christine S. Abellana reach them. If we Mrs. Imee B. Cajandab is an accountancy tion is key to success in leadership and just about cannot be there graduate from the University of Eastern anything we do in life. physically yet, let Associate Editors Philippines and a CPA Board Examination us pull them in Mylene V. Concepcion passer, she is none other than Ms. Imee B. Atty. Guillermo “Ato” B. Iroy Jr. is no stranger to and let them know Michelle S. Balunan Cajandab. She may be the youngest among leadership and the workings of the Commission. what we are doing the three division chiefs but she has lot He has been part of the agency for almost thir- for them,” said Writers to offer. The accounting division did not teen (13) years holding different positions such as Ramirez on the have a chief for a long time. The entry of Project Development Officer IV, Executive As- Charlene Mae G. Cabigan first airing of the Allan M. Gatchalian Ms. Imee brought direction to the office. sistant IV, Acting Executive Director, Executive show. Director and presently the Chief of Budget Divi- Abigail Marie V. Rivera Ms. Imee served as an accountant for different sion. With his vast experience as part of the top During the stint Elias S. Samorin companies and government agencies before, office of the agency, it’s easier for “Ato” to handle of former Support Aizabelle Rose R. Terrado like the Pasig River Rehabilitation Commis- the Budget Division. Services Division Karlo Paolo R. Pates Cristina M. Garcia sion (PRRC) and Commission on Audit as a Ms. Imee B. Cajandab Chief Carmenci- The PSC partnered with the Philippine Broad- State Auditor I. Her experiences made her very Atty. may look like a serious person but he has a ta Velasco, the PSC radio program was dubbed casting Service to air the PSC Hour to ensure “Ang Inyong PSC.” Information Officer Nancy Contributor much qualified for the position. Leading a di- great sense of humor behind his stern aura. He that activities and programs of the Commission, Marianne Saberon-Abalayan vision with an almost all-female staff made it shares his “baon” made by his loving wife with Gonzales took care of the coordination with the especially those available to the public are made easier to build a harmonious relationship in the his staff. According to one of his staff, “Atty. Iroy Philippine Olympic Committee, national sports known. associations, PSC guests and other stakeholders. Consulting Editors office which is a key for the division to function is not your typical boss. As much as possible, he Prof. Serg Opena well. Her staff says, “her maturity at work is wants to do things as simple as they can be. He Prof. Ed Fernandez still on process but she is very determined and is a very positive and jolly person who is always Cecille Quimlat and veteran Prof. Gemima Valderrama we are sure that every step makes her a better ready to throw jokes to brighten your day, a pro- sports radio personality, Ric chief.” fessional yet very approachable leader.” Yap-Santos co-emcee the ra- dio program, which is aired ev- The PSC Newsmagazine is the official “She is very strict when it comes to liquidation Familiarity of work and good relationship with ery Wednesdays at AM station quarterly publication of the reports and all the papers that come to her ta- his staff makes the heavy demands of the work DZRH 918 from 1 to 3 PM. Philippine Sports Commission ble. She always follows procedure even though Atty. Guillermo B. Iroy, Jr. in his division lighter according to his staff. His with editorial office at some of the NSAs are very insistent and always enormous knowledge in his work is the key fac- RMSC PABLO OCAMPO SR. ST. want to rush the process”, said Ms. Luz Alberto, and currently the Acting Chief of Management tor for him to lead the division effectively. MALATE, MANILA, PHILIPPINES. 1004. Presently, Ms. Malyn Perez de the staff in-charge of checking liquidation doc- Services Division, Ms. Anna Christine S. Abel- Tagle-Bamba, head of the Public uments of NSAs. “She is a woman who always lana means business. Hers is the familiar boom- These three Division Chiefs are the life support of The editors welcome sports stories from Communications Office, takes wears a smile but keeps a firm stand when it ing “bisaya” voice on the second floor. “Bisaya” Dir. Ibay in handling the Bureau on Administra- contributors from all over the country. care of the PSC Hour, that has comes to work”. is actually how people close to her fondly ad- tive Finance and Management Services. Without Please send your articles to the address slowly gained a steady following dress her. their support the operation of the bureau will be indicated above with your name, among our sports and physical Ma’am Tin, as she is popularly known, has been slow and ineffective. The PSC is truly blessed to address or e-mail them to fitness enthusiasts. serving the agency for twenty-five (25) years. She rose from the ranks as she started as a clerk have them in the family. [email protected] A law graduate from University of Sto. Tomas and eventually became one of the most reliable

22 PSC NEWSMAGAZINE | January - March 2017 “Our ultimate goal is to have a sustainable grassroots program to fuel our elite program. This will be the biggest purpose that the PSI will serve.”

Marc Edward D. Velasco National Training Director PSC-Philippine Sports Institute