CLARK FREEPORT -- The world-class sports facilities in New Clark City impressed international boxing icon Senator Manny Pacquiao when he visited days before the 30th South East Asian Games begin on November 30.
Pacquiao interacted with athletes from Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and the Philippines during his visit.
He asked them about their stay in New Clark City.
The athletes replied in unison, "Everything's great!" referring to the accommodation, food, and training facilities.
In a video message, the Senator encouraged Filipinos to show support to national athletes as they bring pride and glory to the country.
"Pilipinas, meron na tayong magandang facility. Kailangan suportahan natin ang ating mga atleta para sa karangalan ng ating bansa. We win as one!" he said.
Pacquiao toured the 20,000-seaterAthletics Stadium with a track certified as Class 1 by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), the 2,000-seater Aquatics Center certified by the International Swimming Federation (Fina), and the Athletes' Village complete with housing amenities and gym facilities.
Pacquiao will lead the ceremonial lighting of the SEA Games cauldron in New Clark City to mark the opening of the games.
Designed by National Artist for Architecture Francisco "Bobby" Mañosa, the cauldron serves as a tribute to Filipino athletes and a testament of government's commitment in giving value and importance to national athletes and the continuous development of the country's sports program.
Aside from the sports facilities, a polyclinic of the Philippine General Hospital Satellite for Sports Medicine and Wellness was also built to provide free medical and health care services to athletes participating in the SEA Games.
The PGH Polyclinic will be equipped with a 24-hour Emergency Room Facility, Primary Care and Sports Medicine, Dentistry, Ophthalmology, Imaging Center (X-ray and Ultrasound), Diagnostic Laboratory and Pharmacy during the games.
BCDA, together with infrastructure developer MTD Clark, Inc., built the new sports facilities as part of the New Clark City Phase 1A in just 18 months since the project broke ground in January 2018. (PR)