Around 7,000 athletes, coaches, officials and spectators will converge at the Baguio Athletic Bowl near Burnham Park in Baguio on September 15 as flags of the 17 regions participating in the national finals are hoisted to mark the opening of the 7-day championship.
Philippine Sports Commission Chairman William Ramirez will lead preparations for the said youth-oriented multi-sports event.
“As in all events, there are still some details that need to be fine-tuned, but all in all, we are ready. Baguio is a gracious and cooperative host,” said Ramirez.
Head of Secretariat Gloria Quinto aid that members of the working committee have started to come in to the City of Pines as preparations reach its peak this coming week.
Baguio City Mayor Atty. Mauricio Domogan and Ramirez are expected to declare the games open.
Ramirez divulged that the agency is trying to upgrade the delivery of the event.
“We have been doing this for some years now. We want to be able to present a much improved event,” the sports agency chief said.
A huge electronic LED wall will be put up at the area of Burnham Park to keep the pubic updated on the goings-on of the event. Schedules, results and some highlights will be flashed on the giant screen to keep the community involved and informed.
Some 27 events (18 qualifying and final sports) will be played in the different playing venues in Baguio City and nearby La Trinidad, Benguet. Except for dancesports, which will have its only competition day on the 20th, all other sports will have two to seven-day competitions.
President Rodrigo Duterte has been invited to grace the opening ceremonies as well as officials from the Philippine Olympic Committee and the different national sports associations.
