Romero: Let students watch SEAG for free

MANILA, Philippines — Deputy Speaker Mikee Romero (1-Pacman) yesterday urged the Department of Education and Philippine SEA Games Organizing Committee to allow students to watch the regional sports festival for free.

Romero, who is taking part in the biennial meet as member of the Phl polo team, said Phisgoc should allot a portion where students – especially those from Tarlac and Pampanga – can cheer not only for Filipinos but also for other athletes.

“We have state-of-the-art athletics and swimming centers but it will look ugly if there are no student-cheerers,” said Romero.

A noted sports patron, Romero knows how crowd support can make an impact in the country’s all-out bid to relive the “Miracle of 2005.”

Romero believes in the importance of crowd support.

“We did it 14 years ago (overall champion) so I see no reason why we can’t duplicate our golden achievements during the 23rd SEA Games. With President Duterte’s total support and crowd support I’m confident we can do it again,” said Romero, one of the founding directors of the Philippine National Federation of Polo Players.

“If you are competing and you see yours kababayans cheering their hearts out, I’m sure you will do everything humanely possible to win,” said Romero. “That’s what I want to see and hear when we hold this year’s SEA Games.”

The last time the country hosted the Games, the Philippines collected 113 gold medals – 26 ahead of perennial champion Thailand.

Romero, who bankrolled the Phl basketball team that lorded it over during the 2007 SEAG in Thailand, said DepEd officials should also do its part in this endeavor since the country’s honor is at stake in this event.

“Let us allow students to watch and cheer for our athletes. Let them feel the spirit of SEA Games,” he said.