"It’s really quite amazing and we expect a very big turnout," said MASCO chief Arnold "Ali" Atienza, son of Manila Mayor Lito Atienza. "This is a very healthful indication that Manila is so much into sports, which plays a vital role in our efforts of molding the city’s youth into assets of society."
According to the young Atienza, the staging of the third MY Games, which was originally scheduled from May 23—30, has been moved to June 27—July 4 to enable the organizers to accommodate entries still pouring in.
Practically, all 897 barangays in Manila, as well as the 130 private and public schools are well represented in the games, which will have the historic Rizal Memorial Sports Complex as the main hub of competitions.
An estimated 8,000 children-athletes aged 15 and under will see action in this year’s edition of the MY Games, which will kick off with a festive opening ceremony at the Rizal Memorial Track Stadium.
A cheering competition among the big city’s college and university squads and fireworks display, coupled with songs, music and dances, will light up the colorful inaugural rites.
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the oldest collegiate league in the country, has already committed the participation of its junior athletes from the country’s premiere city in the event.
The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), chaired by Eric Buhain, has also pledged assistance to the MASCO, including the use of various facilities at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex for the endeavor.