Para sports in Palaro and BP?

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is discussing the possibility of expanding the Palarong Pambansa and Batang Pinoy to add more para sports in their calendar of events.

Commissioner Matthew “Fritz” Gaston said he will discuss how some sports will be integrated into the PSC’s biggest grassroots program that saw the rise of two Olympic gold medalists in Hidilyn Diaz of weightlifting and Carlos Yulo of gymnastics.

The Philippines saw its biggest medal tally in the 13th ASEAN Para Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand with 45 golds, 37 silvers, and 52 bronze medals.

“I’ll bring it up with the board on the technicalities like whether it will be a demo, how many can join and what sports will be included,” Gaston said.

Commissioner Edward Hayco said the PSC board, led by Chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio, will have to talk things through to ensure the athletes will be accommodated.

“That has to be tackled. It could gel with the Philippine National Para Games but it needs to be discussed what direction to take,” Hayco said.

Boccia, athletics, swimming and goalball are currently in the roster of sports for the Palaro while Batang Pinoy has yet to add events that are aligned with those featured in the Para Games.

Jan Jyro Palermo, who competed in the 2023 Palaro in Marikina City, claimed a gold medal after ruling the ASEAN Para Games T20 long jump with 6.89 meters.

This year’s Batang Pinoy will be held in Bacolod City.