OUTDOOR activities of the Davao Summer Children’s Games were put on hold following the attack in Marawi City that forced President Duterte to impose martial law in the island.
The three-day sports event for youth is supposed to open on Thursday.
Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte ordered officials to lock down the city to avoid further threats and encouraged tourists to cancel their trips to the city.
Philippine Sports Commission Chairman William Ramirez, a Davao City native, said they will not risk the lives of the young participants of the summer sports event.
“We would like to show the world that peacemaking starts with the children. However, we will consult the local leadership, headed by Mayor Sarah Duterte. If she says we will stop, we will stop our activities,” Ramirez said.
The Summer Children’s Games is part of the PSC’s campaign to use sports as a vehicle to promote peace in Mindanao. Three-on-three basketball for 12-under boys is scheduled at the Rizal Park, one of the city’s major landmarks. A 12-under volleyball game is also set at the Almendras Gym.