By Genalyn Kabiling
Malacañang has ordered all government agencies to support the country’s successful hosting of the 10th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Para Games early next year.
Malacañang Palace (Photo by Richard V. Viñas / MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO)
In Memorandum Circular No. 67 issued by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, government agencies and local government units have been asked to extend support to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and Philippine Paralympic Committee (PPC) in the preparation, organization, and hosting of the upcoming regional games.
The ASEAN para games is a biennial, multi-sport event organized by the ASEAN Para Sports Federation for athletes with physical, visual or intellectual disabilities. The PPC has been recognized by the federation to lead the organization of the regional games in January 2020.
"The successful organization and hosting of the 10th ASEAN Para Games requires the involvement, coordination and support of concerned government agencies, the different national sports association, local government units and the private sector," the circular read.
"It is the policy of the State to promote a more inclusive society, give its full support to the improvement of the well-being of persons with disabilities, and undertake all efforts necessary to facilitate their integration into mainstream society," it added.
To ensure the smooth and efficient organization of the upcoming regional sports tournament, Malacañang has directed PSC, PPC and concerned national sports associations to coordinate and support each other for the hosting of the ASEAN Para Games and all its preparatory and relevant competitions. They must also work together for the effective participation of the Filipino delegates in these evens.
All government departments, bureaus, agencies including government-owned or -controlled corporations and state universities and colleges are likewise directed to render full support assistance to the PSC and PPC in activities related to the sporting event.
The Palace meantime has encouraged local government units, non-government organizations, business sector educational institutions and the general public to cooperate and support to ensure the regional games will be a success.
The circular, signed by Medialdea last September 26, takes effect immediately.