President Rodrigo Duterte conferred a Presidential Medal of Merit to Philippine Sports Commission Chairman William Ramirez in simple rites held at the Malacañang Palace, Thursday.
Along with only a handful of cabinet members and heads of agencies, Ramirez received the said award from the president for his unparalleled work as the government’s sports agency chief.
Ramirez thanked Duterte for the opportunity to lead the PSC and be part of the President’s team.
“The President asked me, Butch, how long have you been with me? I realized I have worked with him for more than 15 years in different capacities,” said the only two-term PSC chief.
“When one works in government he goes about his work because it is his responsibility and commitment. I did not expect this,” shared Ramirez who dedicated the award to the athletes, coaches and PSC employees saying that he is privileged to represent them, and that the recognition is a nod to the collective hard work of all involved in Philippine sports.
The Presidential Medal of Merit was established in 1949 and is awarded by the President of the Philippines in recognition of meritorious achievements and services.