Aquino to welcome athletes in Palaro rites

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, Philippines  – President Aquino will be the guest of honor during the opening ceremony of Palarong Pambansa 2012 on May 7 at the Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center (NRSCC) here.

Presidential Management Staff regional team leader Cesar Tuliao said the President accepted the invitation of Gov. Amado Espino Jr.

The opening program was originally scheduled on May 6 but has been reset to May 7.

The President is expected to strengthen sportsmanship and camaraderie among 10,000 delegates and spectators from across the country, according to Espino, who presided over a meeting of the working committees of the Palaro on April 25.

Present during the meeting were Vice Gov. Jose Ferdinand Calimlim, provincial administrator Rafael Baraan and representatives of the presidential management staff, provincial government department heads, Philippine National Police, Armed Forces, regional government offices and non-government organizations.

Former President Fidel V. Ramos, who confirmed his participation, said he welcomed Aquino’s presence in the opening ceremonies, according to Espino.