Batang Pinoy casualty of Zamboanga battle

The Raging war in Zamboanga City has claimed yet another casualty: the Batang Pinoy 2013 finals.

Philippine Sports Commissioner Jolly Gomez yesterday said they are inclined to transfer the scheduled week-long competitions from the strife-torn city in November to another venue.

The decision was spurred by the on-going conflict between government forces and members of the National Moro National Liberation Front which has occupied several barangays in the busy Mindanao city.

“We will probably move it, but we will make a formal announcement on Friday,” said Gomez who is the official in charge of the meet.

The PSC earlier said they are looking after the safety of the athletes and officials who have already raised concerns following military operations in the city.

Sources said the agency is considering Bacolod City as its new venue. Other sites being eyed are the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex and Philsports in Pasig.

The meet, flagship of the PSC’s grassroot program, is expected to lure 8,000 athletes who have already qualified in the regional championships.