Alcoseba bats for creation of Cebu sports commission

CEBU, Philippines - Provincial Board Member Raul "Yayoy" D. Alcoseba of the First District of Cebu has filed last Monday a local legislation before the Provincial Board for the creation of the Cebu Provincial Sports Commission that will be under the direct supervision of the office of Governor Hilario "Junjun" Davide III.

In his resolution co-sponsored by Jose Ribomapil S. Holganza, Jr., Alcoseba stated that "there is an urgent necessity to supplement the intention and policies of the Philippine Sport Commission in promoting physical education, encourage and sustain the development of sports in the country to foster physical fitness, self-discipline, teamwork and excellence for the development of a healthy and alert citizenry through a unified national sports promotion and development program."

Alcoseba, who served as Vice Chairman of the Cebu City Sports Commission during his nine-year term with the City council, expounded the importance of such commission considering that "it is the sincere desire of this administration to prepare, train and develop those who are, inclined to sports so that they will have the opportunity to ably represent the Province in national and international competitions."

"The Provincial Government recognizes the importance of physical fitness and amateur sports program for all persons in the community irrespective of age and sex," added the legendary Cebuano basketball coach.

Once formed, the commission shall primarily be responsible for the development and implementation of program in the field of sports and other related activities for the province of Cebu.

One of its highly ambitious goals is to build modern sports complex for major national sports competitions, which shall also serve as a training center/venue for other cultural and arts exhibitions and competitions.

It will conduct basic and applied research on sports development and other related activities as well as  plan out sports activities in the province of Cebu. It will also synchronize and integrate all ongoing sports activities, leagues or tournaments in the province, either those in connection with barangay fiesta celebration as well as those which may hereafter be planned out by the commission.

Aside from promoting and sustaining sports training activities and development in the barangay level, the commission will also plan and implement an integrated program of physical fitness and amateur sports development for the province.

Added to its powers and functions is to invite and engage the services of consultants and experts for the various forms on sports activities and create action teams to supervise the different programs.

As it will coordinate and harmonize its activities with other government agencies especially with the Department of Education, it also develop and maintain recreational facilities, playgrounds and sports centers.

More to it, the commission will provide incentives to deserving associations, athletes, referees, game officials, coaches and other persons or entities involved in or supporting sports development.

As it plans to organize sports events in the different barangays as well as purchase sports equipment and materials that are necessary for the attainment of its objectives, the commission will conduct periodic fund-raising projects to help finance its various programs. (FREEMAN)