MALACAÑANG has directed all government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations and state universities and colleges, to support the Philippines' hosting of the 30th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games.

Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, by authority of President Rodrigo Duterte, signed Memorandum Circular (MC) 56 on January 25, ordering all departments, bureaus, agencies and instrumentalities of government to “render full support and assistance” to the Philippine SEA Games Organizational Committee Foundation Inc. (PHISGOC).

The PHISGOC is a non-stock, non-profit organization created to oversee the preparations and execution of the Philippines's hosting of the SEA Games this year.

Under MC 56, the Philippine Sports Commission, the Philippine Olympic Committee, and all concerned national sports association were mandated to coordinate and support each other for the effective preparation and successful participation of the Philippine delegates in the 2019 SEA Games and all preparatory and relevant competitions.

All government offices, consistent with their respective mandates, were likewise instructed to assist PHISGOC in preparatory activities like procurement of necessary materials and equipment, provision of support services, and acceptance of donations for the country's hosting of SEA Games.

The Duterte government also sought the cooperation and support of local government units, non-government organizations, the private business sector, educational institutions, and the general public to ensure the successful conduct of the biennial multi-sport event.

MC 56 stressed that the participation of the public and private sectors would ensure the “smooth and efficient” organization and hosting of SEA Games.

“The successful organization and hosting of the 30th SEA Games requires the involvement, coordination and support of concerned government agencies, the different national sports associations, and the private sector,” the memorandum read.

The 30th SEA games will be held on November 30 to December 11, 2019 within the areas of Clark in Pampanga, Subic Bay in Zambales and in Metro Manila. (SunStar Philippines)