Philippine Sports Commission Optimistic on Resolving Anti-Doping Compliance Issue

MANILA — The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has expressed confidence in resolving its current compliance issue with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) swiftly, potentially averting a suspension from international competitions. During Tuesday’s Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, PSC chair Richard Bachmann, executive director Paulo Tatad, and Philippine National Anti-Doping Organization (Phi-Nado) officer Nathan Vasquez conveyed their optimism about meeting WADA’s requirements and maintaining the country’s eligibility for global sports events.

According to Philippines news Agency, the PSC is collaborating closely with Malacañang to address the legislative aspects necessary for WADA compliance. Bachmann emphasized the importance of transforming Phi-Nado into a fully independent entity to ensure it has the resources to support the national athletes’ pool adequately. This shift towards independence, inspired by Indonesia’s response to a similar challenge in 2021, is seen as crucial for meeting WADA’s standards.

WADA’s concerns with the Philippines stem from a notification in January, following an initial alert in September of the previous year, regarding the country’s failure to adhere to the WADA code. The specific issues include the need for a Test Distribution Plan, the inclusion and testing of athletes in high-risk categories, the maintenance of an updated Registered Testing Pool (RTP) through WADA’s system, and the timely prosecution of doping cases.

The potential repercussions of non-compliance could result in the Philippines being barred from participating in significant international competitions, including the Southeast Asian Games, Asian Games, and the upcoming Paris Olympics in July. In response, the PSC has appealed WADA’s decision, taking the matter to the Court of Arbitration in Sports.

Bachmann and Tatad are focused on preemptively addressing the issues highlighted by WADA before its representatives visit the Philippines next month. They highlighted the collaborative efforts among the PSC, Phi-Nado, the Office of the President, the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), and national sports associations to enhance anti-doping education and administrative processes.

Tatad reassured that Filipino athletes’ preparations for the Paris Olympics remain unaffected and that the collective efforts of all stakeholders would ensure the resolution of the compliance issue. The PSC’s proactive stance and the heightened awareness and cooperation among Philippine sports organizations signal a strong commitment to upholding integrity and fair play in sports.