Former PSC chairman Juico, 78
JAMESRAY Mishael Ajido and Riannah Chantelle Coleman lead the Philippines during the opening ceremonies of the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal.
Photograph courtesy of POC Media Pool
Former Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman and Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (Patafa) president Philip Ella Juico passed away on Saturday.
He was 78.
His son, Quezon City First District Councilor Joseph Juico, announced his father’s passing on social media early Sunday, saying the former sports official had been battling cancer since 2022.
“It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my beloved father, Philip ‘Popoy’ Ella Juico, who peacefully joined our Creator at 8:18 p.m. on 31 October 2026,” the younger Juico said.
“After courageously battling cancer since 2022, my Papa passed away peacefully in his sleep. While our hearts are filled with sadness, we find comfort in knowing that he is finally free from pain and suffering and is now resting in God’s loving embrace.”
Juico held several key positions in government and Philippine sports, beginning with his appointment as secretary of the Department of Agrarian Reform from 1987 to 1989.
He later became the fourth chairman of the PSC, serving from 1996 to 1998, before taking the helm of Patafa from 2015 to 2022.
He also served as vice president of the Asian Athletics Association and chaired its School and Youth Commission.
Beyond athletics, Juico helped establish the Philippine Super Liga in 2013 and the Shakey’s Super League in 2022, contributing to the development of Philippine volleyball.
Details of Juico’s wake have yet to be announced at press time.
Patafa even posted a heartfelt message in light of the passing of its former president.
“We are deeply grateful for your leadership, dedication, and the many memories you have left with us. Thank you for your invaluable contributions to Philippine athletics and sports, and for the legacy you leave behind,” Patafa posted on social media.