GMA names Naga site of 2002 Palaro

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has named Naga City as this year’s host of the Palarong Pambansa while designating Tubod, Lanao del Norte as next year’s venue of the multi-sports event.

In a press conference yesterday at Malacanang, the President said she based her decision on the recommendations of Philippine Sports Commission chairman Eric Buhain.

"Eric Buhain said it (Naga City) is the overwhelming choice of the Department of Education regional directors," said the Chief Executive. "But next year, it will be in Tubod, Lanao del Norte because they have been waiting for years and years, 1999, 2000, 2001."

The announcement put the PSC, the Education Department and host Naga City in full workmode as the Palarong Pambansa unfolds May 19.

Both Naga City and Tubod, through Lanao del Norte Gov. Imelda Quibranza-Dimaporo and Congressman Abdullah "Bobby" Dimaporo, had agreed in principle to accept the President’s decision.

Buhain, along with the Education Department, recommended Naga City as this year’s venue of the multi-sports event for elementary and high school students while PSC commissioners William "Butch" Ramirez and Cynthia Carrion endorsed Tubod. – Marichu Villanueva