The Philippine National Police (PNP) said that the much-anticipated opening of the 30th edition of the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games was going smoothly at the 50,000-seater Philippine Arena in Bulacan on Saturday.
PNP officially praises that the support and cooperation from the public in ensuring the success of the opening ceremony of the 30th SEA games yesterday,” PNP officer-in-charge, Lt. Gen. Archie Gamboa stated on Sunday.
A total of 19,767 police officers and government personnel have been deployed to ensure that this prestigious sports event will be going smoothly. He said tight PNP security remains in full force cooperating with the Philippine Sea Games Organizational Committee (Phisgoc) even as they continue to express full support to all Filipino athletes.
Gamboa said the PNP remains alert to prevent any possible crimes and carry out security contingency plans in case Typhoon Tisoy will delay the scheduled games, and assist local disaster management councils to implement protective measures when problems arises.
“We urge the public to maintain excellent display of unity, discipline and order. Unity in diversity. We Win as One!” Gamboa said.
The formal opening showcased a performance that shed light on the beauty of a “united” Philippines featuring a strong sense of inclusivity, from complex warrior dances to the many struggles of the host country’s marginalized sector.
The audience witnessed the parade of around 8,750 athletes from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, Timor Leste, Singapore, and Vietnam.
The opening rituals also showed the simultaneous lighting of the cauldron by Filipino boxing champions Emmanuel Pacquiao and Nesthy Petecio at the New Clark City.
The 30th SEA Games, which was held by the Philippines for the fourth time, will be held from November 30 to December 11 at the newly-built New Clark City Sports Hub in Capas, Tarlac; Subic, Zambales; Laguna; Batangas; Tagaytay; Imus, Cavite; and the newly-renovated Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Metro Manila.
Source：PNA
