The decision was made by PSC in light of the recent Facebook post from the fifth world rank Obiena stating that he first wanted to finish the Philippine Olympics Committee (POC) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) probe. 

“In light of the recent decision of Mr. Ernest John Obiena as posted on his social media account, the Philippine Sports Commission humbly informs the public that we are discontinuing the mediation offer,” the PSC said.

“The agency leaves the mediation table, respecting the decision of Mr. Obiena who chose to submit to procedures conducted by other institutions,” said the PSC.

The government sports-funding agency bared that the mediation should be voluntary to which Obiena is not yet ready, but said that they are still willing to mediate if the future calls for it.

“We have to underscore that mediation should be the first course of action being the more peaceful, equitable, confidential, voluntary option to resolve issues.

“The PSC though is keeping its doors open to the process should both parties agree to it in the future,” it added.

The conflict sparked when PATAFA accused Obiena of fabricating liquidations of payments to the latter’s Ukrainian coach Vitaly Petrov.

Even though the mediation offer has been ruled out, the PSC assures the public that it has continued to monitor the situation by reviewing relevant documents.

“In the meantime, please be assured that we are also looking at documents and records relative to the matter,” the PSC said.