The Philippine Sports Commission will no longer pursue being the mediator between EJ Obiena and the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association.
The decision of the PSC board comes in the wake of Obiena’s statement that PATAFA, which is headed by president Popoy Juico, continued to make statements about him despite a moratorium set by the agency.
“I have been quiet lately as I have realized I cannot out-politic a politician,” said Obiena. “I just want to be clear that I have no issue with the PSC mediation; in fact, I was the first to agree to it verbally but things change when the other party neglected the moratorium imposed by PSC and continued to insinuate ill behaviors.”
In response, the PSC has withdrawn its participation in mediating the rift.
“In light of the recent decision of Mr. Ernest John Obiena as posted on his social media account, the Philippine Sports Commission humbly informs the public that we are discontinuing the mediation offer,” read the statement of the agency. “The agency leaves the mediation table, respecting the decision of Mr. Obiena who chose to submit to procedures conducted by other institutions.
“We have to underscore that mediation should be the first course of action being the more peaceful, equitable, confidential, voluntary option to resolve issues.”
According to Obiena, he believes that the Philippine Olympic Committee and the International Olympic Committee have all the facts they needed.
“First, there is already a process underway with the POC and IOC related to my case on harassment,” he said. “I believe it’s appropriate to allow this process to finish unencumbered by outside matters such as a parallel mediation process. I believe it’s right to allow several more days for the POC process to conclude.
“Secondly, with all the facts on the table, I honestly don’t see what is left to mediate.”
The PSC, meanwhile, is not fully closing its doors on helping repair the damage done by the squabble between the Olympian and the federation.
“The PSC though is keeping its doors open to the process should both parties agree to it in the future.”
