The provinces of Occidental Mindoro and Negros Occidental are getting ready to host the 2020 and 2021 Palarong Pambansa, respectively.
The two provinces won the hosting rights after an intensive deliberation on the proposals of bidding local government units.
The decision was reached by the Palaro board last April 3.
The board, led by DepEd Secretary and Palaro Board Chair Leonor Magtolis Briones, made the decision after the members reviewed the bids and discussed the reports on technical inspection for Occidental Mindoro, Negros Occidental and other local government units.
Officials said that the reports were based on the inspection and validation of the team led by the DepEd Undersecretary andPalarong Pambansa Secretary-General Revsee Escobedo.
Under Palarong Pambansa Resolution No. 2019-002, the board adopted the policies on determining the selection of the venue or the host LGU.
The board is now deciding which LGU will play host three years in advance.
The move is being done “in order to give sufficient time for the winning host to prepare for its playing facilities and billeting quarters, and allocate funds in its annual budget appropriation.”
Officials said the hosting of the Palarong Pambansa is determined by bidding and guided by the principle of the “Luzon-Visayas-Luzon-Mindanao” rotation or cycle.
At the earliest time possible, members of the Palaro Board are evaluating the bids based on the sports venues (40%), billeting area (30%), and additional consideration (30%) including peace and order/conducive conduct of the Palaro.
Davao City hosted the recent edition of the Palaro, from April 27 to May 4, with the theme, “Shaping the Future Through Sports.”
Also known as the National Games, the Palaro saw student-athletes from all over the country breaking a number of 32 records.
Aside from Escobedo, Davao City Mayor Sarah Duterte, together with other DepEd and local government officials, also graced the closing ceremonies.
“To our athletes, you played your best and embodied the true meaning of sportsmanship and for that, we all congratulate you,” she said. “Where you will go from here is up to you, but I am confident that with your determination and passion, and with the support of your families, coaches, and friends, success will always be within your reach,” she added.