Manila: Incoming Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chair Patrick Gregorio expressed his gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for entrusting him with the new position. In a statement early Sunday, Gregorio, also the incumbent president of the Philippine Rowing Association, vowed that he would repay Marcos' trust by assuring a smooth leadership of the PSC.

According to Philippines News Agency, Gregorio emphasized his commitment to the role, stating, "It is my honor and privilege to serve as the chair of the Philippine Sports Commission. I am grateful for the President's trust and will do right by it." With the Philippines showcasing its sports prowess in recent years through achievements like Hidilyn Diaz's Olympic weightlifting gold in Tokyo 2021, Carlos Yulo's twin Olympic gymnastics golds in Paris last year, and Alex Eala's runner-up finish in the Lexus Eastbourne Open in England, Gregorio expressed his inspiration drawn from these accomplishments and his aim to elevate Philippine athletes further.

Gregorio stated his vision for the PSC, "Let my leadership inspire as I have been inspired by the sheer potential in Philippine sports -- to build and to strengthen this proud nation. Karangalan ko ang magsilbi sa bayan at sa mga atleta ng bayan (It is my honor to serve the nation and the nation's athletes)." Gregorio will succeed Dickie Bachmann, a former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) board member and professional, as confirmed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Saturday.

As of now, there is no exact date for when Gregorio, who was the PBA board chair in 2014, will officially assume his new position.