If it works for Manny Pacquiao, it could work for the Filipino athletes.

The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) plans to request Manny Pacquiao to allow a major player in his training camp to lend a hand in the country’s bid for the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou.

POC president Jose ‘‘Peping’’ Cojuangco said he would like to “be given the right direction” as far as nutrition and conditioning are concerned as the country revs up for the November 12 to 27 sportsfest.

Cojuangco did not name names but he was definitely referring to Alex Ariza, who is trainer Freddie Roach’s right-hand man at the Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood.

A native of Colombia, the Los Angeles-based Ariza is Pacquiao’s strength coach and nutritionist and Cojuangco believes his knowledge would make a difference in the Philippine campaign.

Informed about the POC’s plan to tap his services, Ariza readily accepted provided that Pacquiao gives him the go-signal. Pacquiao is expected to give in to the POC’s request.

“No problem,” said Ariza over the phone on Thursday from Los Angeles.

Told about the proximity of the Asian Games, Ariza said there is still time to improve or correct the diet of the athletes.