Richard Bachmann expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC)—the country’s government sports agency—for the past two and a half years.

In a statement on Monday, June 30, Bachmann said, “The most fulfilling part of public service is witnessing the potential of Filipinos to reach historic achievements.”

“I am deeply grateful to have been part of remarkable milestones in Philippine sports. Our collective efforts have brought joy, inspiration, and strength to the Filipino people,” said Bachmann, who will be succeeded by Patrick “Pato” Gregorio starting in July.

During Bachmann’s tenure, which officially began late December 2022, the Philippines achieved impressive results in major international competitions, including the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, the 2024 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia, and the 2024 Paris Olympics.

At the Asian Games, the country recorded its best overall ranking in three decades, with a haul of four gold, two silver, and 12 bronze medals, before solidifying its position in the Southeast Asian region in Phnom Penh.

The country also sent 22 athletes to the Paris Olympics—the largest delegation since sending 26 athletes to the 1992 Barcelona Games—and delivered a historic two gold medals courtesy of gymnast Carlos Yulo.

Beyond these achievements in the elite level, the PSC under Bachmann also focused on strengthening the country’s sports foundation through grassroots programs such as Batang Pinoy and the Philippine National Games. The agency also championed inclusivity and recognition in sports through initiatives like the Philippine National Para Games, Women in Sports, and Indigenous Peoples Games.

The PSC also worked to highlight the country’s potential as a global sporting destination by hosting the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, the 2024 ICF Dragon Boat World Championship, and preparing to host the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship, the inaugural FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup, and the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Junior Championships.

“I leave the PSC with a deep sense of fulfillment. I thank the hardworking men and women of the PSC, our national athletes and coaches, the Philippine Olympic Committee, and everyone who has contributed to uplifting Philippine sports,” said Bachmann.

“I wish my successor, Mr. John Patrick ‘Pato’ Gregorio, all the best in continuing the mission we all deeply believe in,” he concluded.