Negros Oriental to host national games

GOVERNOR Roel Degamo confirmed Friday that the province will host the Philippine National Games on May 26 to June 3.

Degamo acknowledged the efforts of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) for holding the event in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental and allotted P25 million.

The province owns several sports facilities like Olympic-size swimming pool and jumping board, sports complex for basketball games.

The province also bid to host the Palarong Pambansa next year, Degamo said, adding that Batang Pinoy Games was also held in Negros Oriental last year.

In a meeting with local officials recently, PSC Commissioner Jolly Gomez said the sporting event will have 25 different games with over 5,000 national athletes, officials and coaches participating.

Gomez said the host city and province will have minimal expenses by providing police personnel in the games' venues for security of the participants; health or medical services; and some janitorial services in the different play venues.

Some 2,000 student volunteers, however, will be hired to assist the working committees during the event, he said.

Gomez is optimistic that economic activities will increase during the eight-day sports event.

For his part, Dumaguete City Mayor Manuel Sagarbarria said the city is closely working with the province to discuss the needed preparations for the event; and with the Philippine National Police for the safety and security of the participants and guests.