In a surprising twist to the interesting race for the Philippine Olympic Committee leadership, basketball association head Al Panlilio and surfing federation chief Dr. Jose Raul Canlas, initially announced as part of the ticket of presidential aspirant Chito Loyzaga, have thrown their support for the reelection of Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino.

In a statement on Friday, Nov. 1, both Panlilio, the president of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and current POC first vice president, and Canlas, head of the United Philippine Surfing Association, pledged their support to Tolentino.

“I’m committed only to Philippine sports, to the Filipino athletes and to the leadership of Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, who did a good job, and we are hoping to make it better or sustainable in the upcoming years,” said Panlilio.

“I am for Philippines sports and for the Filipino athletes,” Canlas said. “[Tagaytay City] Mayor Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino has proven himself as an effective leader.”

Not only that the support of the two sporting leaders fortified Tolentino’s bid to lead the POC for another Olympic cycle but their statements were also a huge blow to the camp of Loyzaga, who had both Panlilio and Canlas as part of his ticket as vice president and treasurer, respectively.

“I’m so surprised to see my name on their list because when he [Loyzaga] called me, he just told me that they would only leave the first vice president blank and same thing with Doc Canlas’s treasurer position,” said Panlilio.

“I’m honored and thankful for considering me also as their treasurer. But I declined their offer and told them that I will only stick to my original commitment to run under the leadership of Mayor Tolentino,” said Canlas.