The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) yesterday revealed that seven individuals masquerading as official members of three girl softball teams in the on-going Asia-Pacific championships in China were able to secure airline tickets using government funds.

Commissioner Eric Loretizo identified them as Esteban Albacea (principal of Domingo Lacson National High School), his wife Holly Albacea (a high school teacher in Bacolod) and sister-in-law Ana Rose Albacea and Mario Estrella Jr.

Rose Albacea and Estrella were appointed as assistant coach and coach, respectively, so they could avail of the free tickets, according to Loretizo.

In the Junior Leage squad (13-14 years), Haydee Bongas, an umpire but not a native of Bacolod, joined the team although the PSC has already stopped providing financial assistance to umpires since they get to be compensated when officiating in overseas events.

Loretizo said that a certain Jonathan Despi, who was given the title of team manager, was also booked to join the Junior League team but decided at the last minute to withdraw.

The PSC said three others — Ma. Elena Dumancas (principal of Education and Training Center School I), Nelly Canila (principal of ETCS II) and Damasco Sancon, an umpire, also joined the trip and were classified as members of the Major League (11-12 years).

 The three teams were almost sent home after failing to come up with the required ,000 entry fee (per team). The timely intervention of the PSC prevented their deportation. The other Philippine team, represented by Adamson University, did not encounter similar problems since it had the participation fee.

Reports from Guangzhou, site of the competition, say that some of those who were able to earn complimentary airfare have decided to repay the PSC.