Ricky Vargas has openly declared his unwavering support for the reelection of Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino as president of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC). Vargas, who served as the president of the POC before Tolentino, is a strong advocate for continuing the programs that have elevated both the stature of the POC and the welfare of many Filipino athletes.

During a FIBA Asia Cup qualifier game between the Philippines and New Zealand, which saw Gilas Pilipinas triumph 93-89, Vargas took the opportunity to express his endorsement for Tolentino’s leadership. “I’m solidly for the continuation of the programs of Bambol [Tolentino],” said Vargas. “He has done so much not just for the POC but for the athletes as well.”

Vargas further shared that Tolentino’s leadership has been instrumental in uplifting the POC and its athletes. “He’s been able to help not only the POC stature, but bring up the stature of the POC and he also helps many athletes,” Vargas said.

Having resigned from the POC presidency in 2019, Vargas chose Tolentino as his successor, citing his political acumen and strong leadership qualities. “We need a man like him, especially in the POC where politics is painful,” Vargas emphasized. “That’s the reason I chose him to take over my place because I knew that we needed somebody strong, someone who knows politics and can actually manage politics in any organization.”

As the POC elections approach on November 29 at the East Ocean Seafood Restaurant in Paranaque, with 61 national sport associations casting votes, Vargas maintains his confidence in Tolentino. Tolentino, who is seeking a fresh four-year term, faces a challenge from Chito Loyzaga of the baseball community. Vargas insists that while Tolentino’s critics may continue to voice their opposition, it’s important for the POC to maintain unity and focus on the future of Filipino athletes.

“It’s expected, the other side has always been the biggest critic and they never stopped, in the guise of unity, they never stopped,” Vargas shared. “But I think we should be a little bit more circumspect.”

Tolentino’s team for the upcoming term is made up of respected figures in Philippine sports, including Alfredo “Al” Panlilio of basketball as first vice president, modern pentathlon’s Rep. Richard Gomez as second vice president, and other notable personalities from various sports. The team is collectively known as “Bambol’s Working Team,” reinforcing a vision for greater collaboration and success in Philippine sports.

With the POC election approaching, Vargas’s support for Bambol Tolentino’s reelection is a significant endorsement in an election that will shape the future of Philippine sports leadership.