By Lilian Mellejor/Philippine News Agency
DAVAO CITY — Yes to sports, no to drugs!
An old reminder for sure, but President Rodrigo Roa Duterte did not skip a beat in reminding the 2019 Palarong Pambansa athletes the destructive impact of illegal drugs on the individual, the family, and the society.
Duterte opened the national games on Sunday here as he wished the 18,000 athletes who are competing in the 36 events “the best of luck.”
Duterte told the crowd at the Davao City-University of the Philippines Sports Complex in Bago Oshiro that he was elated by his hometown’s hosting of the national games for the second time after 69 years.
He also expressed confidence the city will further improve its sports facilities to better accommodate large sporting events.
“I am so proud that after so many years my home city has the honor to welcome young promising athletes from all over the country,” the President said.
Duterte also took the opportunity to call on the young athletes to report corruption activities.
He also repeated his warning to purveyors of illegal drugs “not to destroy the youth.”
“This administration is determined to eradicate illegal drugs, the President vowed.
Mayor Sara Z. Duterte was not present but in her video message, she underscored the value of learning discipline and sportsmanship.
She also reminded the athletes not to play if they do not feel well and to immediately seek medical attention.
“The city is more than thrilled to welcome more than 18,000 delegates of the Palarong Pambansa, as it promotes physical education among young Filipinos and inculcates in them the values of excellence, discipline, teamwork, fair play, and integrity,” Mayor Sara said.
Sara said the city’s passion for sports has “inspired us to run the extra mile in preparations to give all of you an indelible, incredible experience in this annual multi-sport event.”
Davao City’s Public Safety and Security Command Center said over 3,000 security personnel are detailed in the billeting quarters and gaming areas of the event.
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