Estrada to open Palaro in Bacolod

Manifesting his keen interest in youth sports anew, President Joseph Estrada has accepted the invitation to grace the Millennium Palarong Pambansa kicking off on Sunday at the Panaad Sports Complex in Bacolod.

"I'm pleased to announce that President Estrada has agreed to be the Millennium Palaro guest of honor on May 23, when we will have the inaugural ceremonies," said Philippine Sports Commission chairman Carlos "Butch" Tuason yesterday at the PSA Forum at the Holiday Inn Manila.

"The President will arrive from his state visit to China on Sunday morning, attend to some important matters on Monday but will be available for the opening ceremonies on Tuesday," added Tuason.

Appearing in the same forum sponsored by Agfa, Red Bull and McDonald's were PSC Commissioner Monico Puentevella and Director Rolando Brillantes of Bureau of Physical Education and School Sports, the sports arm of the Department of Education, Culture and Sports.

Puentevella, whose hometown is hosting the country's longest-running sportsfest for the second time in three years, said the Palaro schedule would be adjusted to accommodate the inaugural rites on Tuesday.

"Events scheduled on Tuesday afternoon will be moved to Sunday so all of the participants can attend the opening ceremonies," said Puentevella, who allayed fears over security during the week-long meet.