By Tracy Cabrera
Sports facilities and equipment are now being upgraded in the National Capital Region and some other areas across the archipelago as preparation are being initiated for the Philippines to host even more international sports events that would promote the country as a premier sports destination.
According to Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Patrick ‘Pato’ Gregorio, the move is a critical way of helping grassroots sports and producing world-class athletes who could bring honor and prestige to the Philippine in the global sports scene.
Gregorio guested at the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum where he was joined by PSC commissioner Walter ‘Wawit’ Torres, Pilipinas Sepaktakraw Association (PSTAI) president Karen Tanchanco-Caballero and speak takraw junior national team players Jay Ann Balwit and John Deryck Diego.
Tanchanco-Caballero announced that thehe Philippines will be hosting from November 36 to 30 (the current yesr) the inaugural Asian Sepaktakraw Federation (ASTAF) U19 Asian Championships at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum and Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.
The prestigious competitions will be participated in by around 15 countries and nearly 300 athletes and officials who have confirmed to compete.
Countries listed in the roster of participants are Bangladesh, Chinese Taipei, India, Indonesia, Iraq, South Korea, Malaysia, Myanmar, Pakistan, Thailand, Vietnam, Iran, Nepal, Oman and host Philippines.
“Medals will be disputed in the boys and girls regu, boys doubles, and boys and girls quadrant events. (Our) junior team has been training intensively at the Bulacan Sports Complex since September and they are eyeing for podium finishes in the sport,” Tanchanco-Caballer pointed out.
