Huge turnout seen in Luzvimin Games

Participation in the Luzvimin Games has already reached its maximum with 198 Local Government Units and Sports Councils already making up the roster, which will vie for the more important slots leading to the Philippine National Championships.

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Eric Buhain noted the enthusiasm shown by local government and sports council leaders following a series of consultation meetings in the country’s three major island groupings.

"This early, we have received unqualified support from the local leaders. They even voiced out a need to strengthen our partnership for a comprehensive grassroots program, which we believe is vital to the strong republic envisioned by President Arroyo," Buhain said.

The expression of support was raised during the past consultative meetings by the PSC with sports council delegates in Cebu, Baguio, and Davao.

"It is very heartwarming to see them prepare for the launch of the Philippine National Championships. These LSCs are competing to win their athletes slots in the national teams for various sports and they really prepared early to give our best athletes a run for their money," Buhain said.

First to be held would be the Visayas Games, set on Sept. 7-14 in Iloilo, then the Luzon Games to be held on Sept. 21-27 in Dagupan and neighboring Pangasinan.

The Mindanao Games, which already saw two editions held in the region, also hopes to forge another peace pact between government and rebel groups for the Oct. 19-24 event.