MANILA, Philippines – Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman William “Butch” Ramirez backtracked from his initial decision, and finally accepted the role as the Philippines’ chef de mission to the 2019 Southeast Asian Games. 

“Last night, I was given firm instructions which I shall carry out, knowing beyond any doubt that national interest is primary concern of government, and should be all of it. I humbly accept the chef de mission post for Team Philippines’ 2019 SEA Games participation,” said Ramirez in a press conference held on Wednesday, May 29 at the PSC. 

The PSC chairman officially replaced Philippine Taekwondo Association secretary-general and Olympian Monsour del Rosario after Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Ricky Vargas fired him and several officials from their appointive positions. 

Vargas offered the position to Butch Ramirez as he was deemed “most qualified” for the post. 

“He is the most qualified. Many are, but he is the most qualifed to handle this job. And I thank him for accepting and reconsidering,” said Vargas. 

The chief of the country’s sports government agency assured that he can juggle the dual role as the Philippines hosts the regional biennial meet in less than 6 months. 

“It’s really an enormous job and at the same time, I’ll have my 4 commissioners helping me and I have my core group, the executive director, the deputy executive director, the chief of staff, we’ll be working together, myself, Ricky Vargas and Alan Peter Cayetano. I think the signal of Malacañang is to have a truce in preparation of the SEA Games. Kayang, kaya ito (we can do this.),” said Ramirez. 

Ramirez will start his duties by scheduling a chef de mission meeting with the presidents and secretary-generals of the different national sports associations (NSA). 

This will allow him to understand what activities have been done by the NSAs as well as addressing what needs to be done before the SEA Games opening on November 30. – Rappler.com