EJ Obiena is back on the PH National teams after “long awaited and just decision” as announced by the PSC following PATAFA’s endorsement.
Olympian EJ Obiena has been formally reinstated to the national team as he should.
The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) announced on Wednesday this development which came after the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA) endorsed his re-inclusion along with five other athletes to PSC.
A gathering held last Saturday, August 13, made the reinstating possible as majority of the PATAFA Board members voted on it during their special board meeting.
Obiena said that this decision was "long awaited and just,” after months of misunderstandings and hearings about his case which started after his Tokyo Olympics stint.
"This was a long awaited and just decision; and one in the best interests of Philippine sport," Obiena wrote in a social media post. "It’s also a decision that is congruent with the values and principles of the Olympic Spirit. Now, I look forward as I work tirelessly to bring more glory to our beloved Philippines!"
Letting bygones be bygones, the World No. 3 pole vaulter in the world thanked his mother organization, PATAFA, and PSC for including him in the national team again.
"Whilst I shall properly leave the past in the past; I believe the facts have spoken. The Commission on Audit has spoken. My fellow countrymen have spoken. And my team and I have proven our dedication with our performances on the world stage and a first-ever World Championships medal," he wrote.
With his reinstatement, Obiena will be given the same allowances previously extended to him based on his classification as a world-class athlete.
According to PSC Executive Director Atty. Guillermo Iroy Jr, the reinstatement will take effect this month and that the changes fall within the existing team quota of athletics.
“We are thankful to the PATAFA leadership for taking this step to solidify the strength of our national athletics team,” said PSC Officer in Charge and Commissioner Bong Coo.
Tags: #polevault, #Olympics, #nationalteam