The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) remains committed to its grassroots programs despite ongoing preparations for the 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games late this year in Thailand.

Commissioner Walter Torres said they are in constant communication with various local government units to ensure that up-and-coming athletes will be able to compete at their highest level in competitions such as the Palarong Pambansa and the Batang Pinoy.

The PSC recently celebrated its 35th anniversary last Friday.

“The Palarong Pambansa, although it is not under the PSC, supports the organization and hosting of Palaro. So, we will continue the coordination with the local government units because it’s very important that they be part of this mission in sports promotion and finding the new athletes, creating programs,” Torres said.

“This is not only for our athletes without disabilities. There are also other sectors like our athletes with disabilities, our para-athletes. Then, we cannot forget our indigenous peoples also in the program. So, we are working with many sectors to give an opportunity to participate in sports and achieve excellence through sports.”

Several sports icons first competed in grassroots programs before becoming world-class athletes.