Ricky Vargas is new POC head

Ricky Vargas was named the new POC president during the sports orgaization’s general election at the Wack-Wack Golf and Country Club clubhouse in Mandaluyong on Friday. (Photo: Philippine Olympic Committee/Facebook)

MANILA — Change is coming at the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC).

Ricky Vargas was named the new POC president during the sports orgaization’s general election at the Wack-Wack Golf and Country Club clubhouse in Mandaluyong on Friday.

Vargas dethroned Peping Cojuangco as the chief of the sports body that takes charge of the Philippines’ participation in the SEA Games, the Asian Games, and the Olympics.

Vargas was initially disqualified from running in 2016 but was given a second chance to challenge Cojuangco through a court ruling last year.

This time, he got 24 votes from the representatives of the National Sports Associations (NSAs) who were given rights of suffrage compared to Cojuangco’s 15.

Meanwhile, Bambol Tolentino was named the new chairman, beating Ting Ledesma, 23-15.

“This is an overwhelming experience, and I thank everyone who supported my candidacy and that of. Cong. Bambol Tolentino,” Vargas said after the announcement.

It turned out to be a perfect birthday gift for both Vargas and Tolentino as they are celebrating their respective birthdays over the weekend.