ATHLETES FROM the state universities and colleges (SUCs) in Mindanao converged here to compete in the 30th Mindanao Association of State Tertiary Schools (Masts) Friendship Games that started on Sunday.
About 4,000 delegates from 29 out of 31 Mindanao-based SUCs as far as Tawi-Tawi arrived in the island as early Wednesday (November 20) for the games, which will run until November 29.
The Masts Friendship Games consist of 24 sports events, dance contests, performing arts, literary, pageant, musical and visual arts competitions.
Camiguin Governor Jurdin Jesus Romualdo said the Masts games served as a “prelude” to the South East Asian Games, and that the regional athletics competition is the best time to show to other Asean nations that the country — particularly Mindanao — is peaceful contrary to news reports of violent extremism and armed insurgency in some parts of southern Philippines.
“This proves that peace can be achieved, that there is no need for violence. Why fight when we can be diplomatic? If you can talk, then do it. If you want to enjoy sports or tourism then promote it,” Romualdo told the delegation gathered at the Pedro P. Romualdo Memorial Sports Complex in Mambajao town during the opening ceremonies Saturday evening.
The governor also urged the delegates to be his “spokespersons” and help promote Camiguin when they go back to their home provinces.
Camiguin is considered as one of the prime tourist destinations in the country, with its hot and cold springs, waterfalls, white and black sand beaches, historical sites, and dive spots. It is also known for its lanzones, it sweetness attributed to the volcanic soil of the island.
Dr. Milabel Enriquez-Ho, Masts president and Western Mindanao State University president, said the Masts Friendship Games is the time where “we express the holistic aim of all SUCs to provide education and training together with sports.”
Meanwhile, Mambajao Mayor Iñigo Jesus Romualdo has appealed to the delegates to observe cleanliness during their stay in the island.
“Please remember to clean as you go and segregate your waste to our designate trash bin. This is a simple act that can contribute to the protection and preservation of the environment,” the mayor said.
This year’s Masts Games is anchored on the theme “Masts at 30: A legacy of leadership, unity, and passion through sports, cultures and the art.” (By Jigger Jerusalem)
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