3 days ago
Philippines explores World Games hosting
The Philippines is exploring the possibility of hosting the World Games.
The World Games is a quadrennial multi-sport event which features sports and events that are not in the Olympic programme. Sports featured include baseball and softball, billiards, cheerleading, dance sport, and rugby.
According to the Philippine Sports Commission, this interest in hosting started during a conversation between International World Games Association President José Perurena López, Chief Executive Officer Joachim Gossow, and Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick Gregorio.
"The World Games is all about bringing together the athletes and the community for sports," said Lopez.
"One important aspect in hosting the Games is the involvement of people. You don't need new facilities, we don't give it to big cities. What we want is a host that will bring together its people and give the attendees a tournament they will always remember," added the World Games Association president.
Gregorio replied, "What we can offer is a game with a heartbeat," to which Gossow answered "Well, you are one point ahead of everybody."
"We can do this for the Philippines. Imagine getting everyone involved to welcome 110 countries and give them the warmth of Filipino hospitality," said Gregorio. "This is achievable."
Bidding is open up to 2026 with the next host to be announced in the same year. Should the Philippines push through and win the bid, then it would be the first Southeast Asian country to host the multi-sport event.
The 2029 edition will be held in Germany where 5,000 athletes in 34 sports are expected.
—Justin Kenneth Carandang/JMB, GMA Integrated News
