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    Vargas bares reasons behind resignation, but mum on POC infighting

    Vargas cites reasons for stepping down as POC president
    Jun 18, 2019
    PHOTO: Jerome Ascano

    RICKY Vargas confirmed he has resigned as president of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), citing 'corporate work and family sentiments' prompted him to give up the highest post in sports.

    Vargas said he tendered his irrevocable resignation to the majority of the POC board on Tuesday during a meeting at the POC office in Philsports Complex in Pasig City. It was later confirmed by the POC’s new spokesperson Clint Aranas.

    “After much introspection, I have determined that there would be other sports leaders who would have the time and inclination needed to lead the POC more effectively,” said Vargas, who is also the chairman of the PBA.

    Vargas' resignation puts a shock end to a short term as president marred by perennial politicking, just 16 months after he rose to power by beating Jose ‘Peping’ Cojuangco in a reelection in February 2018.

    But months into his presidency, Vargas, a top lieutenant of Manny V. Pangilinan, has grown increasingly frustrated over the infighting in the Olympic body, where remnants of Cojuangco's leadership still held key positions.

    Last month, Vargas ordered a purge of these officials in a move that got the backing of Malacanang, but that hardly quieted a simmering feud within the body.

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      On Tuesday, board members questioned Vargas’ involvement in the Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (Phisgoc) Foundation, Inc., which they claimed was put up without the POC board's approval, as well as a contract with a company vying to become the official outfitter of the SEA Games.

      Vargas declined to touch on those issues on Tuesday, instead seeking understanding for his decision while assuring his continued support to Philippine sports as president of the Association of Boxing Alliances of the Philippines (Abap).

      “I ask for understanding of all concerned, most specially the athletes and NSAs who have supported my initiatives in the organization. Rest assured, I will continue to support Philippine sports in my private capacity, particularly as an official of the MVP Sports Foundation and as president of ABAP,” said Vargas.

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      Vargas has also asked secretary general Patrick Gregorio to assist in the smooth transition to the new president in Joey Romasanta.

      Robert Bachmann of squash is set to be named secretary-general.

      Get more of the latest sports news & updates on SPIN.ph

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      PHOTO: Jerome Ascano
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