Bachmann replaces Eala as PSC chairman

MANILA, Philippines – Richard “Dickie” Bachmann has been appointed as the new chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the Office of the Press Secretary confirmed on Wednesday, December 28.

Bachmann replaces former PBA commissioner Jose Emmanuel “Noli” Eala, who was appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in late August.

The appointment papers arrived at the PSC office this week, sources added.

Bachmann recently served as commissioner of the UAAP Season 85 basketball tournament, and was concurrent chairman of the PBA 3×3 circuit, and is expected to drop these positions as he takes the role of the country’s sports minister.

A former La Salle Green Archer, Bachmann also served as longtime governor of the Alaska franchise in the PBA, and briefly held the same post months after the team was sold to Converge.

Eala was reportedly recommended for the top sports government position by former executive secretary Vic Rodriguez.

But last September, Rodriguez resigned following a reported falling out with Marcos, sparking rumors that Eala may also be headed for an early exit. 

Eala’s four-month service was highlighted by the successful staging of the 2022 Philippine Youth Games, otherwise known as the Batang Pinoy games in mid-December.

“My brief stint in the PSC gave me an opportunity to once again serve with passion in a field I hold close to my heart,” Eala said in a statement, where he also thanked Marcos for the opportunity and other sports leaders for their support.

“I wish the new chairman of the PSC all the best. As I leave, I am at peace knowing that in the months I served, I cared for all our athletes and Philippine sports like no other.” 

Meanwhile, former national fencer Walter Francis Torres and ex-Cebu City sports commission chief Edward Hayco were also named PSC commissioners, joining bowling legend Olivia “Bong” Coo, who was appointed last July. – Rappler.com