Palaro gains parents’ support

At least 5,000 student-athletes armed with parental consent have already submitted their entries to the Palarong Pambansa which blasts off May 4-11 at the Mindanao Civic Center in Tubod, Lanao del Norte.

The entries came from 14 regions all over the country, signifying their intention to see action in what is expected to be the biggest Palaro ever in terms of planning and level of competitions.

Philippine Sports Commission chairman Eric Buhain said they are still waiting for the National Capital Region and Region 7 (Western Visayas), which traditionally send big delegations and thereby take time in completing their rosters.

Buhain expressed delight in the turnout of the entries considering the bad publicity the province got but added that the agency, as well as the provincial government led by Gov. Imelda Quibranza-Dimaporo, police and military are taking no chances.

"The Philippine National Police, the Armed Forces and even the MILF are joining hands to ensure the success of the Games," said Buhain.

Buhain admitted that: "Some parents are hesitant in sending their kids to the Palaro. And of course, we respect their stand, but these parents are only speaking for their own kids and not on behalf of their respective delegations."

Support for the Palaro has been gaining ground following the commitment issued by several local governments to send delegations to the biggest annual search for athletic talents.

Gov. Dimaporo has also unveiled the official Palaro mascot named Sari the Champ, a mythical rooster clutching a bounty from the sea.

The launching was made during the Lanao del Norte day in the Pasundayag Northern Mindanao, which was part of the Visit Philippines 2003 in Intramuros.