By Edwin Rollon
PRINCESA CITY, Palawan—There is no pomp and pageantry. It is just a simple get-together led by City Mayor Lucilo Bayron showcasing the hospitality of Puerto Princesa and its people.
After a six-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Philippines-East Asian Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Friendship Games return and will be hosted by the second-largest city in the country for the second time since its revival in 2005.
The weeklong sports fest, friendship, and camaraderie among athletes from four neighboring countries begin with the unveiling of the Games' official mascot ‘Batik’ on Saturday followed by the ribbon cutting for the sports and business Expo with Bayron, Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Richard ‘Dickie’ Bachmann, commissioner-in-charge Walter Torres leading guests and officials.
“We encountered huge challenges in hosting this event but overcame them through sheer hard work, unity, and perseverance. Para ito sa bayan at para sa ating mga atleta,” said Torres, a former fencing Olympian.
Then, everybody proceeds to the Palawan Resorts and Spa for a welcome dinner hosted by the local government of Puerto Princes where athletes, officials, guests, and volunteers are treated to a fiesta-like atmosphere, featuring local singing and dancing groups.
“BIMP-EAGA is a celebration of friendship, fostering unity and camaraderie among nations in the region,” said Bachmann.
On Sunday, the Games officially open with the traditional ‘Athletes Parade’ and torch lighting in the afternoon at the Ramon V. Mitra Sports Complex. Elimination games in sepak takraw get underway in the morning at Palawan State University.
The Philippines go for a promising stint this time around, hoping to capture its second overall title – which it first achieved 21 years ago.
On tap in the week-long sportsfest are eight events – archery, athletics, badminton, esports, karate, pencak silat, sepak takraw, and swimming.
