MANILA – The Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) is committed to elevating collegiate sports in the Philippines to international standards.

This initiative follows the PRISAA National Board of Trustees’ adoption of the theme “Sustaining the country’s inclusive grassroots sports program as a pathway to the Olympics,” outlined in a comprehensive 12-year plan announced in a news release on Tuesday.

Moving beyond its traditional role of organizing an annual national competition, PRISAA has positioned itself as the lead implementor of the national grassroots initiative. This effort will be executed in close collaboration with the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), Department of Education (DepEd), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), focusing primarily on developing future Olympians.

A commitment to this new direction was formalized with the signing of a pledge by 17 regional presidents during the PRISAA National Strategic Conference held on October 12 in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan province.

“We are dedicated to nurturing talent, fostering excellence, and creating pathways for our student-athletes to not only excel locally but to reach the highest levels of competition, including as future Olympians,” the pledge states.

“Together, we will work with integrity, passion, and determination to ensure that PRISAA plays a vital role in shaping the future of sports in the Philippines and preparing our athletes for global success.”

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Commissioner Edward Hayco, recognized for his role in Cebu City’s successful grassroots program, also attended the meeting.

In addition, PRISAA National Executive Director Elbert Atilano has called for a General Assembly meeting with the 17 regional executive directors scheduled for November 9-10 in Zamboanga City. A broader assembly, involving 400 athletic directors and sports leaders from member schools, will also take place in January next year to further solidify the mission of producing Olympians for the country, as formulated during the strategic planning.

elami/mnm

MANILA — Around 10,000 student-athletes and officials are set to converge in Legazpi City for the Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) National Games from July 22 to 26, 2024.

The University of Santo Tomas-Legazpi and Bicol University will be key venues for the event, with preliminary activities and opening ceremonies scheduled for July 20 and 21, respectively.

PRISAA President Edgar Balasta recently announced the roster of venues for the various matches.

Here is the breakdown of the venues and events:

University of Santo Tomas – Legazpi: Gymnastics, volleyball, beach volleyball, and basketball

Bicol University: Badminton, swimming, football, and athletics

Divine Word College – Legazpi: Chess and volleyball

SM Legazpi: Taekwondo

Ayala Mall: Karatedo and Talent Selection for Mutya ng PRISAA

Ibalong Centrum for Recreation Court and Sagrada Familia: Basketball.

Lignon Hill and Camp Ola: Tennis

Pacific Mall: PRISAAYAWAN and boxing

Legazpi City Convention Center: Dancesport and the Mutya ng PRISAA crowning ceremony

Legazpi Expo Center: Table tennis

Lidong Mayon Volcano Riviera open field: Baseball and softball

Old Albay Airport: Archery

Cinema 4, Ayala Mall: Vocal Solo and Duet Competition

LCC Hall Legazpi: Oratorical competition

SMART Communications has committed to supporting the National PRISAA Games. The SMART Infocast System will be used for automated dissemination of PRISAA schedules, announcements, and game results. This system will also be utilized for the SMART Texter’s Choice Award in the Mutya ng PRISAA.

Additionally, SMART and PLDT will provide internet access at the different playing venues to enable live streaming of the sports events and activities.

(el Amigo/mnm)