The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is still determined to push through with its hosting of the Philippine National Games (PNG) despite President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos’ decision to veto the bill that aims to institutionalize the prestigious annual event.

In a radio interview, PSC executive director Paulo Tatad stressed that they will still host the PNG as it is very crucial for the training and preparation of the national athletes for the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games.

His statement came at the heels of the order of the Chief Executive, saying that holding the PNG will be redundant to the Palarong Pambansa — the annual grassroots conclave for athletes in the elementary and secondary levels.

The Chief Executive said that instead of institutionalizing the PNG, the fund should be used for the funding and incentives of national sports associations (NSAs).

“The establishment of a national sports program will immensely benefit the country, particularly in the creation of a pool of national athletes. However, while I acknowledge the noble intention of the authors, I feel that the bill may duplicate the efforts and funding for the national sports program instead of its perceived benefits,” Marcos said.

“Hence, the proposed creation of the PNG Board will create functional duplication, leadership confusion and inefficiency.”

Tatad, however, said the PNG will still be held this year as it serves as a springboard of Filipino athletes who will see action in the SEA Games in December.

“We understand the priorities of the administration and we respect it. But it doesn’t stop the agency from holding the PNG,” Tatad said.

“We will find ways to launch PNG to the best of PSC’s abilities.”

The PNG is being used by each NSA as a barometer for those who are willing to compete in the national team.

With the Philippines also hosting the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup and the Junior World Artistic World Championships, Tatad assured that PSC’s budget of P1 billion for 2025 will be enough to support the events and athletes competing in major international competitions.

“Well, most of the items have been ready considering that the budget is there. Some items which we are still ironing out so to speak,” Tatad said.

“As an agency attached to the Office of the President, we want to ensure that the budget that is according to us is fully maximized and utilized.”