by Nick Giongco

All is not lost on the 33 percent the Senate slashed from the P7.5 billion that was proposed by the organizing committee PHISGOC to stage the 2019 Southeast Asian Games (SEAG), Sen. Richard Gordon said.

“We can do a supplemental budget,” said Gordon after attending President Rodrigo Duterte’s formal approval of RA 11214 (Philippine Sports Training Center) at Malacañang.

Senator Richard Gordon (MB file photo)

Gordon said the P2.5 billion can be reinstated provided PHISGOC defends the massive spending.

“That’s why we have to explain to the senators what’s happening,” said Gordon, admitting though that he is himself at a loss as to the intent of the hefty budget.

“I am a supporter of the SEAG but if you cannot tell us what’s happening, how can we fight for you? We have to know where it is going to be brought,” he said.

Gordon advises Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Butch Ramirez not to give up on the bid to recoup the P2.5 billion.

“Fight for it, Butch,” said Gordon, stressing that the Senate can expedite it in time for the hosting.

“If it will not be enough, why not?”

Tags: 2019 Southeast Asian Games , Asian Games , Butch Ramirez , Philippine Sports Commission , Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) , President Rodrigo Duterte , Richard Gordon , Rodrigo Duterte