Philip Cezar, former PBA shot-blocker dubbed 'Tapal King', now head of Manila's sports council

The Philippine Basketball Association's former "Tapal King" now has a new kingdom–as head of Manila's sports council.

 

New Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada tapped Philip Cezar to head the city's sports council, according to a report on state-run Philippines News Agency.

 

Cezar said he will prioritize youth volleyball, swimming, track and field, chess, badminton, table tennis, and basketball, along with coaching and training clinics at the elementary and high school levels.

 

He also said he will focus on the maintenance and operation of Manila’s sports complexes.

 

A separate PNA report quoted Cezar as saying many people want to help clear Manila of vices and make it a showcase of discipline and physical wellness.

 

”I will do my best here and there are many people who are ready to lend their helping hands,” he added.

 

Cezar is no stranger to Estrada, having served as vice mayor of San Juan City, where Estrada once served as mayor.

 

After his PBA player days, he handled the San Juan Knights in the Metropolitan Basketball Association and the Laguna Golden Lions in Liga Pilipinas.

 

In his new job, Cezar will have with him former San Miguel star player Norby Rivera, a member of the RP Youth team that won the Asian Basketball Confederation (ABC) Youth Championship in 1972.

 

He will also have with him Dino Ponce-Enrile, a member of the University of the East juniors coaching staff.  — ELR, GMA News