SEAG on track despite unrest

The Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee assured broadcast organizations from nine countries that adequate security measures and transportation provisions will be in place when the 23rd SEA Games unfolds from Nov. 27-Dec. 5.

In a briefing arranged by host broadcast station Nation Broadcasting Network at the Heritage Hotel yesterday morning, Philsoc allayed fear of visiting broadcasters that the political condition of the country is a threat to the conduct of the Games.

"Our preparations for the SEA Games are on track except for some venues. We are also expecting the release of P200 million from the government by August," said Philsoc chairman Roberto Pagdanganan, a member of President Arroyo’s cabinet.

Pagdanganan also reported that Gen. Rodolfo Tor, head of the security committee, is currently preparing the security layout for the SEAG and the Philsoc executive committee is convinced that all bases have been covered by Tor’s proposal.

Philsoc secretary-general Steve Hontiveros was also firm in declaring the political situation "has nothing to do with the hosting of the SEA Games."

Hontiveros noted that the broadcasters had earlier expressed apprehensions over the effect of the political turmoil on the preparations being made for the games.

"It is good that we conducted this briefing this early because now they have seen first hand that there is really nothing to worry about as far as the SEAG goes," said Hontiveros.

Philippine Olympic Committee president Jose Cojuangco also addressed the broadcasters from Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam and noted that except for some adjustments that were made in the timetable, the 23rd SEAG will push through with the Philippines making a strong bid for the overall title.

The 40 broadcasters will visit today the venues in Bacolod and Cebu cities, two of the three satellite venues of the SEA Games.