Former PSC chairman and PATAFA president Philip Juico passes away

MANILA — Former Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman and Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA) President Philip Ella Juico has passed away at the age of 78. 

His son, Vincent, announced the news in a post on social media early Sunday morning. 

“It is with deep sadness that I share the passing of my father, Philip ‘Popoy’ Juico, who passed away yesterday evening at 8:18 pm at the Makati Medical Center,” Vincent wrote. 

“We kindly ask that you keep him in your thoughts and prayers as he rests in peace,” he said. 

The younger Juico said details of the wake and funeral arrangements will be shared to the public once confirmed. 

“Thank you for your prayers and understanding,” Vincent added in the post. 

Juico served as the fourth chairperson of the PSC from 1996 to 1998. 

In 2015, Juico was elected as the president of PATAFA, staying in the post until 2022.  

“Rest in peace, Sir Popoy We are deeply grateful for your leadership, dedication and devotion. Thank you for your invaluable contributions to Philippine Athletics (PATAFA) and Philippine sports in general and for the legacy you leave behind,” PATAFA wrote in a post.

“Your contributions will forever be part of Philippine athletics, maraming salamat po, you will always be in our hearts,” it added.

Juico was also the Chairman of the Philippine Super Liga, as well as Vice President and Chairman of the School and Youth Commission of the Asian Athletics Association. 

Before becoming a prominent figure in sports, Juico served as Department of Agrarian Reform Secretary under then President Corazon Aquino from 1987 to 1989.