The Swimming League Philippines, in partnership with the City Government of Manila, will hold the Manila Swim Fest on November 5 at the Philippine Columbian Association swimming pool in Plaza Dilao, Paco, Manila.
SLP Acting President Fred Ancheta and Manila Sports Council chairman Roel De Guzman recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement to promote Manila’s sports program and be part of the SLP grassroots swimming activities.
“On behalf of Manila Mayor Dr. Honey Lacuna, the city of Manila is joining SLP’s massive grassroots swimming program. This is a big thing for the youth of the city to further strengthen their health and focus not only on their studies, but also on sports. Many people from Manila have also been part of the Philippine Team in swimming,” said De Guzman.
Manila’s pride includes multi-medalist Southeast Asian Games swimmer Sancho Ilustre.
Among those who witnessed the MOA signing were SLP officer Philbert Papa, Langoy Pilipinas president Darren Evangelista and coach Jo Manoloto.
Ancheta, who is also the head coach of the swimming club in Alabang, said the tournament is part of the qualifying meet series conducted by SLP in an effort to assemble a competitive team for various tournaments abroad.
“Our founding chairman Joan Mojdeh is very clear in SLP’s mission and vision, let’s expand the reach of our program and raise the quality of swimming in the Philippines. Because of the many young athletes we can develop, the greater the chance to produce more talented swimmers for the National Team,” said Ancheta.
The tournament is open to all swimming clubs, associations, schools and individuals who wish to increase their experience in high-level competition. Ancheta said, the events lined up are in Classes A, B, C and Motivational.
The organizers also provided an incentive of P7,000 for the overall team champion, while P4,000 and P2,000 await the runners-up.
For those who wish to participate, send the list of athletes to coach Rolando Sarmiento’s email at rollyflame@yahoo.com or contact coach Rolly Dela Cruz at 0905-8479233 and 0919 5772982 as well as the SLP Secretariat at 0917-714 0077.