Malacañang’s appointment of Noli Eala as chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) will be a big boost to Philippine sports and Filipino athletes in particular, according to PSC Commissioner Olivia “Bong” Coo.
The bowling legend Coo looked forward to working with the 59-year-old former Philippine Basketball Association Commissioner and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas executive director whose appointment was announced on Tuesday evening.
“I’m very happy to welcome Chairman Noli [Eala]. It’s really a big step for Philippine sports,” the 74-year-old Coo told BusinessMirror on Wednesday.
Press Secretary and Presidential Spokesperson Trixie Cruz-Angeles announced Eala’s appointment, which was signed by Executive Secretary Atty. Vic Rodriguez.
Coo said they would immediately address all issues specially on the national team’s training center, exposure and nutrition, adding that these essential areas have already been started during the term of previous chairman William Ramirez.
“He’s been in the sports for such a very long time, and he knows the problems of each athlete,” Coo said. “So he’s exposed to the problem of Philippine sports. He knows the problem, and he knows how to solve it.”
She also said that Atty. Guillermo Iroy may retain his post as executive director, although only one more commissioner—and not two as the PSC charter states—will be appppointed by Malacañang.
Eala politely begged off for an interview, saying he would settle down first.