Philippine Sports Commission Commissioner and officer in charge Arnold Agustin welcomed over 300 para athletes from Davao City as the ‘Differently-Abled Sports for Life’ (DAS4Life) paragames opens today at the University of Mindanao, Davao City.
In his opening speech, Agustin thanked all the participants and assured them of the PSC’s continued support, reminding that “one of the agency’s priorities is helping our para athletes discover grassroots talents through these kinds of events.”
“Aside from the R.A. 6847, we are also mandated by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Person with Disabilities through Article 30 to promote the inclusion of PWDs in cultural life, recreation, leisure and sport,’” said Agustin.
In a simple ceremony for the turnover of donated sports equipment held yesterday, Davao City Vice Mayor Bernard E. Al-ag acknowledged the PSC.
“We will use this for the development of our para athletes,” said the vice mayor.
National Council on Disability Affairs Board of Directors Member James Infiesto assured that “we will continue to support and work hand-in-hand with the PSC in strengthening the morale of our PWDs.”
Participants, aged 24 and below, will compete today in chess and volleyball at the University of Mindanao, table tennis at Rizal Park, athletics and goalball at People’s Park and wheelchair basketball at Barangay 35-D covered court.
“We will also conduct paragames in Benguet, Quezon City, Cagayan de Oro, Naga and hopefully in Albay,” said Agustin.
The first leg of DAS4Life paragames kicked off in Tanauan, Batangas last July 17 with over 400 para athletes participating.