PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan – Despite the rainy weather, the parade of athletes gave a vibrant color and atmosphere to the opening ceremony of the 11th BIMP-EAGA Friendship Games which officially kicked off here at the Edward S. Hagedorn Coliseum Sunday afternoon, Dec. 1.

Criminology students from Palawan State University (PSU) along with local dance groups delighted more than 700 athletes, coaches and officials who joined forces to celebrate friendship and camaraderie for the weeklong tournament.

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Richard Bachmann, who graced the event along with Mayor Lucilo Bayron and BIMP-EAGA Facilitation Centre head Susan Pudin, said the sports fest aims to give a positive impact to the cultural and economic partnership of the participating nations.

“We are committed to strengthening our cooperation and solidarity as we set a unified goal of growth and development within our region. As we open this year’s BIMP-EAGA, we emphasized the important role that sports play in achieving meaningful milestones together,” said Bachmann.

“Let the lessons from these games inspire you to make a positive impact in your communities,” he added.

“You are little ambassadors from your home countries, cheer for one another and let the spirit of BIMP-EAGA shine through your actions, humility and good will,” Pudin stressed.

“Together we can make this event a celebration of friendship, collaboration and sheer aspiration. To the athletes, I encourage you to compete with passion, integrity and respect for one another,” said Bayron. 

Meanwhile, sepak takraw events already started with Filipino and Malaysian bets slugging it out at the PSU Gym Sunday morning.

On the other hand, first medal winners are expected to be given in the athletics and swimming events as hostilities begin this Monday, Dec. 2, at the Ramon V. Mitra Sports Complex.