Tolentino calls for POC elections after Vargas resignation

The situation refers to Vargas’ controversial resignation decision at the beginning of the week which he wishes to be “effective immediately.” (File Photo: POC – Philippine Olympic Committee – Olympic.PH/Facebook)

After the resignation of Ricky Vargas as President of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) last Tuesday, June 18, chairman Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino calls for special elections to fulfill the newly vacated position.

Tolentino released a statement last Wednesday, June 19 referring to POC Bylaws Article 7 section 6, entitling the chairman to call for a special election in the case the first and second vice presidents as successors cannot fulfill the presidential duty. This applies to both first vice president Jose Romasanta and second vice president Antonio Tamayo as both are currently vice president of the volleyball association and president of soft tennis respectively. However, Romasanta is currently under review as the board is convinced that he remains qualified for the top spot.

POC spokesperson Atty. Clint Aranas explained, “Under out bylaws actually he is already qualified to be the president but he will serving only the term on Mr. Vargas.”

Aranas also elaborated, “Under our bylaws, unless the 1st vice president or the successor is not qualified then you need to call for a special elections on this one. But considering the length of time right now, we have asked the president already to stay on and finish the SEA Games,” adding, “We are avoiding an election at this point in time to depoliticize because we want to get our hands dirty to work already for the SEA Games,” referring to the upcoming annual international competition that the Philippines is hosting starting November.

Specific details about the elections will be further announced during the extraordinary general assembly of the POC on Tuesday, June 25.

The situation refers to Vargas’ controversial resignation decision at the beginning of the week which he wishes to be “effective immediately.” In his exit letter, he mentioned, “After much introspection, I have determined that there would be other sports leaders who have the time and inclination needed to lead the POC more effectively.”