BIMP-EAGA revival an opportunity to develop young athletes — Walter Torres

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the success of the 11th BIMP-EAGA Friendship Games in Puerto Princesa from Dec. 1 to 5.

The Games will feature sports of athletics, archery, swimming, badminton, sepak takraw, pencak silat, and esports. The organizers expect at least 150 athletes and officials from participating countries (Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines).

But PSC commissioner Walter Torres, who’s on top of the Games, told yesterday’s Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex they’re invited Australia to take part in the event last staged in 2018.

“By history, BIMP-EAGA was a venue to help develop tourism, trade, and investment among the member countries. Then sports became a factor when it was held in 1996 in General Santos City,” said Torres, who represented the country in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics as a fencer.

“And since the direction of Puerto Princesa is into sports tourism, it is also a big opportunity. The other countries will also have the opportunity to promote their activities like fiestas and celebrations, and promote their products whether in goods or services,” he added.

The event is for athletes aged 16-under.

“Focus area and concept ng BIMP-EAGA kaya yung Local government and bahalang magbuo ng team, basta walang experience as National team at hindi member ng national pool,” said Torres, the commissioner-in-charge for Mindanao sports development.

Joining Torres in the forum presented by San Miguel Corporation, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, Smart/PLDT, MILO, and the 24/7 sports app in the country ArenaPlus, was PSC Chairman Richard Bachmann.

“The PSC is here to ensure a good experience, especially for our neighbors who are coming in,” said Bachmann, who is batting for the inclusion of more sports than the eight in the BIMP-EAGA calendar.

“We just want to give our athletes more opportunities to compete,” said Bachmann.

“It’s a challenge but we want to make this bigger and better,” added Torres, who already received full support from Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron.