MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government is “all in” for the hosting of the FIBA Basketball World Cup from Aug. 25 to Sept. 10.
President Marcos assured the full commitment to the global extravaganza by creating an inter-agency task force and directing all government agencies and local government units to support the hosting via Administrative Order No. 5 last Monday.
To be headed by Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann, the body is tasked to “streamline, integrate, harmonize, and coordinate all government efforts for the effective preparation and successful participation of all delegates.”
“The successful organization and hosting of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 require the involvement, coordination, and support of all concerned government agencies, local government units (LGUs), and the private sector,” the order said.
Bachmann and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Al Panlilio welcomed this development, saying this will help ensure that the Philippines delivers “the best World Cup hosting.”
“The PSC continues to commit its support and cooperation for the successful hosting of the Games, and to work hand-in-hand with the SBP and other vital agencies, with the ultimate objective of creating an amazing basketball environment that unites people and encourages them to ‘Win for All’,” said Bachmann.
The PSC chair will be joined by heads or designated representatives from the Foreign Affairs, Health, Interior and Local Government, Public Works and Highways, Tourism and Transportation Departments, Bureau of Customs, Bureau of Immigration, Philippine National Police and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority in the task force.
“This will aid the SBP immensely in the homestretch of our preparations for hosting the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023,” Panlilio said. — Alexis Romero