‘We have to be alert of the changes’ — Ramirez

ADAPT to the times.

This was the advice given by Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chair William Ramirez to his successor for the country to replicate its golden years in sports that was highlighted by weightlifter Hidilyn F. Diaz delivering the Filipinos’ first Olympic gold medal in the Tokyo Games a year ago.

“Adaptability. We have to be alert and aware of the changes in budget, coaching, medical, everything,” said Mr. Ramirez during Tuesday’s Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum at the PSC administration building in Malate, Manila.

Mr. Ramirez helped steer the country’s spectacular performances in international fronts like Ms. Diaz’s breakthrough Olympic exploits coupled by the Filipinos dominating performance in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games and several emergence of world and Asian champions.

Under Mr. Ramirez’s reins and care, gymnast Carlos “Caloy” Yulo rose to being a world champion twice and pole-vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena broke the Asian record and zoomed to No. 5 in the planet.

But Mr. Ramirez was quick to share the tribute to the collected effort of the government, officials, coaches, athletes, private sector, and Filipinos in general.

“It was not a lucky break, there was a collaborative effort. The golden year was due mainly to the hardwork put up by the athletes and coaches,” said Mr. Ramirez.

Mr. Ramirez also mentioned giving equal importance to grassroots development so the country can sustain the momentum of success. — Joey Villar