THE Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) will officially take over the responsibilities of the embattled karatedo federation whose athletes will be competing in the Indonesia 19th Asian Games in August.
The decision came after POC President Ricky Vargas, the body’s arbitration committee and the Philippine Sports Commission all agreed to take over operations of the Philippine Karatedo Federation (PKF).
The World Karatedo Federation recently cut its recognition of the PKF, whose top officers are embroiled in anomalous disposal of allowances to national athletes during a foreign camp last year.
Vargas said that he was visited by several karatekas last Monday who expressed concern over their preparations for the Asian Games.
“We need to get the best athletes to represent the country, and leadership and membership issue should not disenfranchise them,” Vargas said. “We are willing to take on the challenge.”
The POC has tapped Jobet Morales, a long-time taekwondo coach, to oversee the selection process for the athletes.