Patrick 'Pato' Gregorio replaces Dickie Bachmann as PSC chairman

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) will now be headed by Patrick "Pato" Gregorio, a former chairman of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), replacing Richard "Dickie" Bachmann.

This development was confirmed to GMA News Online by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.

"Yes, that's right," Bersamin said when asked to confirm that Bachmann, who held the helm of the PSC since 2023, was set to be replaced by Gregorio.

Under Bachmann's term, the Philippines continued to star in the global sporting scene, in partnership with the Philippine Olympic Committee.

The Philippines had a four-medal haul in the 2024 Paris Olympics where gymnast Carlos Yulo won two gold medals while boxers Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas copped bronze medals each.

In the Asian Games held in 2023, the Philippines had four gold medals, two silvers, and 12 bronze medals. 

The Philippines also hosted international sporting events such as the FIBA World Cup in 2023, the AVC Challenge Cup and the AFF Women's Futsal Championship in 2024, in partnership with their respective national sports associations.

Meanwhile, Gregorio has been known to serve as chairman of the PBA during its 40th season and currently is the president of the Philippine Rowing Association.

Under his leadership, Philippine rowers Cris Nievarez and Joanie Delgaco managed to qualify in the Tokyo and Paris Olympics, respectively.

Gregorio is also a key figure in the rise of the University of the Philippines (UP) Men's Basketball Team from its so-called dark years to championship glory in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Seasons 84 and 87.

Under Gregorio, the Philippines will also compete in the 2025 Southeast Asian Games this December and will host at least two international events: the FIVB World Championship in September and the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup in November.— JKC/VDV, GMA Integrated News