Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. hinted at supporting the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) in building its own headquarters in Pasay City’s Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Complex.
Speaking at the sendoff ceremony for Team Pilipinas to the Cambodia Southeast Asian Games, the President acknowledged that the POC has never had its own office building since its establishment in the early 20th century.
“The Philippine Olympic Committee, I understand is still squatting in the environs of the CCP,” President Marcos said in his speech.
“Kailangan natin siguro—mahirap naman ang dami nating pinapagawa, sa inyo na hindi—wala kayo man lang sarili ninyong opisina.
“But anyway, if there is anything more that this government can do, that this administration can do, that I personally can do, you please make sure you will tell me because we are all rooting for you,” the President added.
Instead, it maintains offices in existing government buildings, like the Philippine Sports Commission building at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex and the PhilSports Complex in Pasig City.
In early 2022, POC President Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino proposed the “House of POC” to include a museum and multi-purpose hall alongside the organization’s staff headquarters.
Despite the lack of government commitment, Tolentino believed the CCP Complex is the most ideal location, given its proximity to the airport, hotels, entertainment facilities, and government and private-sector landmarks and offices.
“With the President himself promising his support, particularly on the POC office, we can now say that the House of POC would no longer be a dream,” Tolentino said.
“It will sooner or later be a reality with the promise of our President.”
President Marcos’s commitment to supporting the House of POC is a significant step towards realizing the organization’s dream of having a permanent headquarters.
Tolentino expressed excitement at the President’s pledge and acknowledged that the House of POC could soon become a reality with the government’s support.
The House of POC will not only provide a dedicated space for the organization’s staff but also serve as a platform to showcase the country’s rich sports history through the museum. It will also serve as a venue for various events and gatherings, which will help promote Philippine sports to a wider audience.
The POC’s lack of a dedicated office building has been a long-standing issue for the organization.
The commitment of the Philippine government to provide support is a positive development in the country’s sports landscape, and the House of POC can become a vital hub for Philippine sports for years to come.
