MANILA, Philippines — Organizers of the 30th SEA Games are facing an even formidable opponent in the coming days: Mother Nature.
Based on the latest weather forecast, tropical storm Kammuri is expected to bring rains in some parts of the country on Saturday or Sunday.
It is expected to intensify into a typhoon before entering the country on the day the SEA Games formally opens at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan, a 55,000-seat indoor venue.
Ramon Suzara, CEO of PHISGOC, remained unfazed.
“We are in constant touch with PAGASA (weather bureau). We are hoping for the best,” he said.
Filipino boxing icon and Sen. Manny Pacquiao will light the cauldron at the open-air New Clark City main stadium.
“The cauldron will be lit and the flame can withstand the wind or the rain. We’re using a special kind of gas to keep it burning until the duration of the SEA Games,” said Suzara.