The Philippine government has announced that all public school classes and work in government buildings in Metro Manila and Bulacan will be canceled on August 25, 2023, in honor of the start of the eagerly awaited FIBA Basketball World Cup (FBWC) 2023.
This action is intended to demonstrate the government's unwavering support for the promotion and development of sports, as per CNN Philippines.
Philippine Holiday Declared for FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Opening
The FBWC is set to take place at the impressive Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.
The issuance of Memorandum Circular 27, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, underlines the government's commitment to fostering wider involvement and participation in sports, while also ensuring the safe and successful commencement of the FBWC 2023.
The directive highlights the importance of supporting the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) in its efforts.
Despite the suspension, government agencies responsible for delivering essential services, responding to disasters, and providing health care will continue to operate as usual to ensure the continued welfare of citizens.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. clarified that the suspension of work for private companies and classes in private schools will be at the discretion of their respective leadership.
This approach allows for flexibility while still acknowledging the significance of the sporting event.
Security preparations are already in full swing, with the Philippine National Police (PNP) actively coordinating security operations for the event.
A comprehensive deployment of police personnel is planned for the various playing venues, as well as the hotels and accommodations for players and staff, Manila Bulletin Reported.
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A Grand Asian Showdown Across Three Nations
The FBWC 2023 is poised to be an exciting spectacle, spanning from its opening on August 25 to the concluding matches on September 10.
This 19th edition of FIBA's premier basketball event will be co-hosted across three Asian nations: the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia.
For the Philippine leg, the focus will be on participants from Africa, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe
The tournament's inaugural ceremony and the opening matches featuring Angola vs. Italy and the Philippines vs. the Dominican Republic will be held at the grand Philippine Arena in Ciudad de Victoria, Sta. Maria, Bulacan.
The commitment of the Philippine government to support and facilitate this international sporting event demonstrates the country's dedication to fostering a positive environment for sports enthusiasts and athletes alike.
The suspension of classes and government work serves as a testament to the value the nation places on global sports engagement and development.
Al Panlilio, the President of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), emphasized the thorough preparations that have gone into organizing the FBWC 2023.
With enthusiasm and determination, local organizers declared that they are "95 percent" ready to execute the hosting duties for what is considered one of the largest basketball events in the world.
One of the focal points of the tournament will be the Philippines' quest to break attendance records by hosting Gilas Pilipinas' opening game against the Dominican Republic at the Philippine Arena.
With a seating capacity of 55,000, the arena provides an expansive and vibrant setting for fans and players alike.
As the excitement builds for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, the suspension of classes and government work on the opening day is a resounding declaration of the Philippines' commitment to celebrating sportsmanship, unity, and international camaraderie, according to Sunstar.
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