Despite the tough odds, Senator JV Ejercito believes the magical performance of Team Philippines during the 2005 Southeast Asian Games can be duplicated when the country stages again the biennial meet late this year.
For one, Ejercito believes the indomitable Filipino spirit will be in full display especially playing in front of “kababayans”.
“Of course as host there’s pressure that we have to perform at a high level,” said Ejercito, a member of the senate committee on games amusement and sports, in a briefing at the Limbaga 77 Cafe Restaurant in Quezon City.
“It’s different when you’re playing in front of your countrymen. You’re totally inspired because you get cheered. So for me, I hope for the best to our athletes,” added Ejercito.
More than that, hosting the biennial meet is also opportunity to boost the tourism, as spectators from 10 other countries will be watching the event.
“It’s always an honor to host, especially the SEA Games. Of course that will be good for us, for tourism and for the country’s image if they are able to host big events like this,” he said.
Ejercito, a strong supporter of safety driving among motorcycle drivers who recently asked President Duterte to review the law requiring bigger license plate, said that organizers should come together to ensure a successful hosting of the SEA Games.
In the history of the biennial event, this will only be the fourth time that the Philippines will stage the SEA Games and the Philippines SEA Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC) is fast tracking its preparation, particularly the main hub at the New Clark City.
The meet will be also staged in various places, including Subic, Tagaytay and in different facilities in Metro Manila.
