THE expertise of former Philippine Sports Commission chairman Ricardo “Richie” Garcia will be tapped for the coming 2019 Southeast Asian Games.
Garcia will play a big role in the coming biennial meet, and is expected to help in the organizational and operational aspects of handling the Games.
POC president Jose “Peping” Cojuangco gave Garcia his marching orders after discussions on the Philippines’ hosting of the 30th SEA Games got moving last week.
“We don’t have a name for his position yet. Right now, Richie Garcia will play an important role. He is one person with experience on the SEA Games. He was part of the 2005 SEA Games organization,” said Cojuangco.
Cojuangco brought up Garcia’s role to Foreign Affairs secretary and SEA Games Organizing Committee chairman Allan Peter Cayetano during their discussions which also involved Philippine Sports Commission chairman William “Butch” Ramirez.
The role of Makati Congressman and taekwondo association secretary general Monsour del Rosario is also being finalized.
Cojuangco will go into final discussions with del Rosario if he will be the chef de mission in 2019.
Del Rosario had earlier said he may not be available because it’s an election year, and that he is seeking reelection when the Games finally come around.
So far, the organizing members have resolved issues concerning infrastructure the venues that may be tapped for the Games.
Talks with officials of the Bases Conversion Development Authority and Department of Public Works and Highways early this week gave them an insight of the things that should be done.
Discussions have shifted to the preparation and training of Filipino athletes, and which facilities can be made available.
The committee is now set to schedule a series of meetings with the national sports association over their training program.