GETTING appointed as commissioner of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is the pinnacle of her illustrious athletic career, legendary bowler Olivia “Bong” Coo told the online Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum on Tuesday.
“At my age, to be appointed (to the PSC) is the pinnacle,” the 74-year-old bowling icon said.
A three-time world champion and World Cup winner, Coo said it came as a surprise for her to be the first appointee of President Marcos at the PSC. The posts of chairman and three other commissioners remain vacant.
Coo, however has to give up the presidency of the Philippine Bowling Federation. She was elected to the post earlier this year.
“I’m doing my homework, I’m fast-tracking. Yesterday [Monday], I attended the (PSC) flag-raising ceremony and I asked for their guidance. It’s a very big task,” said the five-time Asian Games and eight-time Southeast Asian Games gold medalist.
Coo said it was a surprise when she got a call from the PSC last week and was asked to sit down with Atty. Guillermo Iroy, the PSC executive director and officer-in-charge.
“Atty. Iroy handed me an envelope and asked me to open it,” said Coo, referring to her appointment papers from Malacañang.
The former bowler, coach and sports administrator thanked President Marcos for the “trust.”
“With my position as athlete, coach and NSA (national sports association) president, I’ve seen both sides,” she said. “Full circle. I think this is the highest I could attain (in Philippine sports).”