Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, the current president of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), recently introduced his “My Working Team” in preparation for the upcoming POC elections on November 29 at East Ocean Palace Restaurant in Paranaque City. This announcement comes on the heels of an impressive four-year term that has seen significant achievements for Philippine sports.
A Legacy of Success in Philippine Sports
Under Tolentino’s leadership, the POC has celebrated remarkable victories, including three gold medals in two Olympic Games and four gold medals in Asian Games, notably clinching the men’s basketball title. The crowning achievement during this term was the successful hosting of the 30th Southeast Asian Games in 2019, where Filipino athletes showcased their prowess by winning 149 gold, 117 silver, and 121 bronze medals across 56 sports, outpacing second-placed Vietnam by over 50 gold medals.
Tolentino emphasized the importance of teamwork and collaboration, stating, “It’s about teamwork, it’s about setting and achieving goals, it’s about cooperation.” This philosophy has driven his administration’s success and serves as a foundation for his election campaign.
The Upcoming POC Elections
The POC elections are held every four years, coinciding with the Olympic cycle, specifically on the last Friday of November during an Olympic year. As Tolentino seeks another term as president, his “Working Team” includes prominent sports figures: Alfredo “Al” Panlilio (basketball) as First Vice President, Rep. Richard Gomez (modern pentathlon) as Second Vice President, Dr. Jose Raul Canlas (surfing) as Treasurer, and Donaldo “Don” Caringal (volleyball) as Auditor. The Executive Board will also feature Alexander “Ali” Sulit (judo), Ferdinand “Ferdie” Agustin (jiu-jitsu), Leonora “Len” Escolante (canoe-kayak), Alvin Aguilar (wrestling), and Leah Jalandoni Gonzales (fencing).
“This is ‘My Working Team,’ and our mission is ‘Faster, Stronger, Higher—Together,’” Tolentino declared. He acknowledged the challenges ahead as the focus shifts to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics but reassured that the team is dedicated and ready to tackle these goals for the betterment of Philippine sports.
Election Commission and Candidate Filing
The Commission on Elections for the POC will again be chaired by Atty. Teodoro Kalaw IV, joined by Colegio de San Juan de Letran Calamba Rector and President Rev. Fr. Napoleon Encarnacion, O.P., and Philippine Sports Commission Commissioner Olivia “Bong” Coo. The candidacy filing period started on October 15 and concludes today, October 30.
The POC comprises 59 voting members, including 34 Olympic national sports associations, 22 non-Olympic federations, two representatives from the Athletes Commission, and the International Olympic Committee’s representative to the Philippines, Mikaela María Antonia “Mikee” de los Reyes Cojuangco-Jaworski.
As Abraham Tolentino gears up for the POC elections, his emphasis on teamwork and proven leadership record showcases a promising vision for the future of Philippine sports. With an impressive track record and a dedicated team, Tolentino is poised to lead the POC into its next chapter, aiming for greater heights in the world of athletics.
