Manila hits back at Thaksin's remark over SEA Games

Manila: The stage is set for a new contest between the Philippines and Thailand. It's called sports criticism where nobody wins and leaves everybody hot under the collar.

Following the unexpected remark earlier this week by Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Philippine national training director Michael Keon returned the favour by shooting a mouthful in saying Thaksin's comment was an insult to the Filipino athletes who worked hard to reach the present level of competition.

On Friday, Thaksin had accused the host countries of favouring their athletes to boost their medal tally although he did not directly name the Philippines which is hosting the 23rd Southeast Asian Games.

Early yesterday, the Philippines led the tally with 74 gold medals, followed by Thailand with 47 gold and 55 silver medals; Vietnam also with 47 gold but with 48 silver medals; Malaysia, 41 gold medals; and Indonesia, 29 gold medals.

"It is very unsportsmanlike for him to make such a comment.

This is the first time a [government] leader has commented that way while a sporting event is going on. That is why we're surprised," said Keon, a former Philippine Olympic Committee president.

He challenged the accusers to file an appeal instead of making "empty claims".