FOR THE WIN. The teams of Catanduanes province and Ligao City, Albay province compete in a basketball game for secondary boys during the Palarong Bicol 2023. At least 6,500 athletes and other delegates from 13 Schools Division Offices in the region are expected to converge in Legazpi City for the 2024 Palarong Bicol from April 27 to May 4, 2024. (PNA file photo by Connie Calipay)
LEGAZPI CITY – Some 6,500 athletes and other delegates from 13 Schools Division Offices (SDO) of the Department of Education-Bicol (DepEd-5) are expected to converge here for the 2024 Palarong Bicol from April 27 to May 4.
In an interview on Wednesday, Mayflor Marie Jumamil, DepEd-5 information division chief, said officials from the Bicol Regional Athletic Association (BRAA) are holding a series of meetings and technical conferences for technical and general guidelines for each sports discipline.
"It was agreed that the Schools Division Office of Legazpi would be the primary host for the event and co-hosted by SDO Albay, together with SDO Ligao City and SDO Tabaco City. The dates of the weeklong sports activity were considered to ensure the smooth facilitation of outdoor activities and to avoid conflicts with local festivals such as the Rodeo Masbateño," she said.
Jumamil said that to ensure the safety of learner-athletes and to address any potential child protection cases, child protection desks will be established in each billeting quarter.
"Ensuring the safety of our athletes is our top priority. Aside from establishing child protection desks, we are also forming a Clean and Green Committee to maintain a clean and safe environment. Preparations for the playing venues and accommodations for the athletes are ongoing. For the outdoor games, we are considering the health and security of all delegates," she added.
DepEd-Bicol Regional Director Gilbert Sadsad said the Palarong Bicol is important in shaping the students' future, emphasizing its role in promoting sportsmanship and holistic development.
“Each year, our Palaro undergoes enhancements with the introduction of new features aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of our learners during their participation in this sporting event. The dedication we invest in these preparations will undoubtedly contribute to the growth of our learners, nurturing them to become competitive individuals and exemplary citizens of our country," Sadsad said in a statement. (PNA)
