Ramirez takes lead as gov’t departments, agencies join hands for SEAG

TAGUM CITY—The Philippine Sports Commission will spearhead the partnerships with various government agencies for the success of the 30th Southeast Asian Games.

PSC chair Butch Ramirez will open talks with top officials of different government departments and agencies in an effort to solidify their commitment during the country’s hosting of the 11-nation sportsfest late this year.

Malacañang recently issued Memorandum Circular No. 56 instructing all departments, bureaus and agencies of government to “render full support and assistance to the organization” of the Games.

“Being the government’s sports agency, we are expected to take the lead in coordinating with other government agencies being referred to in the circular,” said Ramirez.

According to the PSC chief, a coordination meeting on the second week of this month has been set to address concerns on security, facilities, waste management, traffic management, health security measures and budget, among others.

“The PSC staff has been working with Phisgoc (Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee) to guide them on certain matters, especially with the responsibility of managing the budget falling on our lap,” said Ramirez.

He said the PSC would oversee and strictly supervise spending for the Games.

The Phisgoc has projected that P7.5 billion will be spent for the biennial meet that the country will host for the fourth time.

Phisgoc has lined up 56 sports during the Nov. 30 to Dec. 11 Games, by far the biggest edition of the SEA Games in terms of events to be played.

Phisgoc has former Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano as its presiding chair while Ramirez co-chairs the organizing committee with Philippine Olympic Committee president Ricky Vargas.