Panelo on SEA Games issues: Critics have a point, but let’s continue supporting our athletes

MANILA, Philippines—Malacañang admitted Thursday that there is indeed something wrong in the preparations for the country’s hosting of the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo issued the statement as logistical troubles mar the hosting of the SEA Games as foreign athletes begin to arrive and train for the games, which will be held in different venues in Metro Manila, Clark, and Subic and other areas from Nov. 30 to Dec. 11.

Panelo said criticisms on the inconveniences “should be accepted and considered in order to rectify the errors it has committed.”

“The critics have a point. There is indeed something wrong with the preparations,” Panelo said in a statement.

Panelo said Malacañang welcomes the Senate’s openness to conduct an inquiry into the issue but noted that it will conduct its own investigation as ordered by President Duterte, who was reportedly “displeased” with the reports of blunders.

In the meantime, the Palace official called on the public to support Filipino athletes who will compete for the regional summit.

“Our local athletes deserve our support. Let us welcome our foreign guests with the kind of warm hospitality we are known for,” Panelo said.

He also urged Filipinos to be more “circumspect in reading articles that may contain false information or fake news.”

“Let us not believe them outright. Many of them turn out to be untrue,” Panelo said.

“We call on media outfits to be more prudent in their reporting and avoid publishing information without verification, as allegations are remembered, not their clarifications or justifications,” he added.

Panelo likewise confirmed Senator Bong Go’s announcement that Duterte will provide additional incentives and medals in the Order of Lapu-Lapu to the winning Filipino athletes.

Edited by MUF