MANILA – Philippine Amateur Baseball Association (PABA) head Chito Loyzaga will challenge incumbent president Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino in the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) election next month.

Loyzaga, a respected figure in Philippine sports, brings a track record of leadership and commitment to the values that will enhance the standards and success of Philippine sports.

He pledged a vision of unity, good governance, transparency, integrity, peace, and inclusivity.

“As the sports community continues to grow and evolve, the need for a cohesive and forward-thinking POC has never been more crucial,” said Loyzaga in a statement released to the media on Wednesday.

“Our goal is to build an organization that empowers our athletes, supports our coaches, and collaborates openly with stakeholders to achieve excellence,” he added.

Running under the platform of unity, good governance, transparency, integrity, peace, and inclusivity, Loyzaga’s vision includes creating a collaborative environment where all National Sports Associations (NSAs) are involved in decision-making and where accountability and transparency set the foundation for every action.

According to the statement, Loyzaga’s campaign slogan, “Together for Excellence: A Peaceful, Inclusive, and Transparent POC for All,” reflects his dedication to building an Olympic Committee that values every perspective and upholds the highest standards of leadership and governance.

“I am committed to fostering an atmosphere where inclusivity and unity guide our path forward. I believe that a united and transparent POC will best serve our athletes, coaches, sports officials, and the entire Philippine sports community,” said Loyzaga, whose father was basketball legend Carlos Loyzaga.

Loyzaga’s lineup is composed of basketball's Al Panlilio (first VP), squash's Robert Bachmann, 2nd VP; surfing's Dr. George Canlas, treasurer; weightlifting's Rod Roque, auditor; and board members Rep. Peter Miguel (archery), Dr. Charlie Ho (netball), Rommel Miranda (kurash), Derek Ramsay (gymnastics), and Steven Virata (equestrian).

According to Loyzaga, the lineup shares his commitment to transparency, collaboration, and inclusivity. Together, they aim to bring meaningful change to the POC, creating a community where every voice is valued and heard.

Loyzaga, who served as PH delegation chef de mission at the 2023 Cambodia SEA Games, is calling on all stakeholders, athletes, and the broader sports community to support the vision of a reformed and revitalized POC. (PNA)