MANILA, Philippines — Philippine Sports Commissioner Chito Loyzaga said he’s honored that he’s in the short list of candidates for the job of executive director of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas – a position that will soon be vacated by former PBA Commissioner Noli Eala. But Loyzaga is not much excited about it since it was just a mere speculation.
“I only read about it in the papers, no offer yet,” said the son of basketball legend, Caloy “The Big Difference” Loyzaga. “It’s really hard to speculate.”
If the offer comes his way, Loyzaga said: “I will see it first then evaluate before coming up with a decision.”
But judging his body language, the chubby former Ginebra forward appears inclined to jump to the other fence, saying he owes a lot to basketball.
“I will not be here in the PSC if not for basketball, I owe a lot to basketball,” said Loyzaga.
At the PSC, Loyzaga admitted he’s getting bigger due to pressure.
“But I’m happy because I’m working for our athletes…the welfare of our athletes,” said Loyzaga, a member of the Philippine team that won a silver medal in the 1990 Asian Games.
Eala announced last Saturday that he’s stepping down next month to join a well-heeled private company.
Aside from Loyzaga, also being considered are former PBA Commissioner Sonny Barrios and former NCAA official and Eala’s deputy Bernie Atienza.
Eala would like Atienza to succeed him since he has a complete grasp of SBP’s various programs for the men’s, women’s and youth as well as the referees and grassroots.
Rey Lachica, Manila Bulletin
