MANILA, Philippines—Asian Football Confederation president Mohammad Bin Hammam Tuesday urged the country’s football leaders to unite, even as he pledged P10 million for the development of the sport in the Philippines.
Speaking at the Philippine Football Federation Congress in Pasig City, the AFC chief from Qatar announced he is giving half the amount this year and P5 million more next year to help “you fix yourselves.â€
“I’m a real friend of yours, talking to you from my heart,†Hammam told the country’s football leaders in the presence of officials from Thailand, Laos, Timor Leste and Vietnam. “Please show some solidarity.â€
Hammam was referring to the moves to oust PFF president Jose Mari Martinez, which fizzled out Tuesday after the PFF Board of Governors struck out discussion on his removal from the Congress agenda.
PFF legal counsel Carsi Cruz said the move did not follow the proper procedure as prescribed in Section 28 of the corporation code.
Hammam added, “Your leadership is beset by politics. You have to be given the right platform, guidance and support. Save your nation. Save your youth.â€
Laguna FA president Jun Pacificador said he hopes the present PFF leadership will spend the money from Hammam on “worthwhile†projects.
