The Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Olympic Committee have agreed to seek the help of local government units in the preparation of Team Philippines for the 31st Southeast Asian Games to be held in Vietnam.
With the aim of defending or landing a top-three finish in the biennial meet, the national team faces a big challenge ahead.
POC president Congressman Abraham Tolentino opened the meeting with questions on the budget.
“What if the P200 million allocated budget falls short?,” Tolentino asked.
Following the projected expenses, half of will go towards the actual participation of the nearly 700-man delegation.
After discussions, the group arrived at an agreement to formally seek the help of LGUs willing to “adopt” teams and sponsor some aspects of their training, like venue, meals, and billeting.
“Baka may gusto mag-ninong muna sa ating mga atletea, we are very open to this,” said PSC commissioner Ramon Fernandez, who is also the Chef de Mission to the SEAG.
Tolentino, digging from his extensive experience as an LGU chief, reminded the group that it is imperative to have the Department of Interior and Local Government issue a directive on the “godfather-LGU program.”
Tolentino, for his part, has also committed to adopt the sports of cycling and skateboarding in his district.
“The joint secretariat for the SEAG is carefully working on the SEAG plan,” said Fernandez.
Targeting July 1 as the start of training, Fernandez said: “we still have time to talk to the LGUs.”
Joining Tolentino and Fernandez in the meeting were POC secretary-general Atty. Edwin Gastanes, POC deputy secretary-general Karen Caballero, PSC Executive Director Atty. Guillermo Iroy, Jr., PSC Deputy Executive Directors Queenie Evangelista and Merlita Ibay and PSC National Training Director Marc Velasco.