By NICK GIONGCO
Philippine Karatedo Federation (PKF) President Joey Romasanta yesterday denied having any involvement in the disbursement of funds intended for athletes under the PKF's wings.
"In all my years in sports, I have never gotten involved in the handling and disbursement of money," said Romasanta, who used to head Project: Gintong Alay in the 1980s.
Members of the national karatedo team have spoken against Romasanta and PKF Secretary-General Raymond Lee about their reported failure to give their allowances during overseas trips.
The National Bureau of Investigation has been asked to probe the allegation with the Philippine Sports Commission assuring the athletes that the government agency is fully behind them.
Romasanta said he was guaranteed by Lee that everything is in order.
"This is just political noise," said Romasanta, also the Philippine Olympic Committee first vice president.
Last Wednesday, members of the national team came out with a vote of no confidence on the current PKF leadership as they expressed the desire to place officials who have a passion and knowledge for the sport.