Pacquiao, Estrada Palaro Pambansa guests in May 5 rite

MANILA, Philippines — Boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao and former President and now Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada will be the guests of honor when the 2014 Palarong Pambansa kicks off on May 5 at the newly refurbished Laguna Sports Complex in the capital town of Sta. Cruz.

Laguna Gov. George “ER” Ejercito said other big personalities will grace the opening rites of the province’s first-ever Palaro hosting which he promised to be the biggest ever in the Games’ 57-year history.

“We want this to be the best ever,” said Ejercito. “We are leaving no stone unturned in our preparations—from security of the participants, to the venues and billeting areas down to the Internet capabilities to make sure the action is seen live.”

He said Pacquiao will anchor a five-man torch relay that will begin with Olympic skater Michael Martinez, actor and former Palaro swimming champ Enchong Dee, PBA superstar James Yap and the governor’s son, La Salle track team captain Jericho Estregan.

Pacquiao, who is an adopted son of Laguna because he has a house in Biñan, near Brent International School where his kids study, will also give a keynote speech along with Estrada and Technical Education and Skills Development Administration chief Joel Villanueva.

11,200 participants

About 11,200 athletes, coaches, technical people and parents are expected to gather for the weeklong event.

PLDT will provide broadband Internet at the venues and media center and set up wide screens in all three SM malls in the province.

Ejercito said the 19-hectare sports complex will be the main hub of the 27-sport competition. The property also features 26-foot bronze monument of Dr. Jose Rizal.

The national hero, who was born in Calamba, was a skilled fencer, shooter and boxer. He also practiced arnis de mano, judo and jiu jitsu.

About 400 policemen will ensure the safety of the participants while 800 medical personnel will attend to the needs of the athletes.