Come rain, typhoon or shine, the show will go on - PHISGOC

By VIKNESWARAN RAMAN

MANILA, Dec 2 -- Despite the threat of typhoon Kammuri heading its way, the Philippines Sea Games Organising Committee (PHISGOC) today gave its assurance that the 30th SEA Games won't be extended. 

PHISGOC chief operating officer, Ramon Suzara said the technical delegates have the solutions to overcome Kammuri-related problems and not hold the biennial Games beyond the closing ceremony on Dec 11, even if there was a need to change competition venues or postpone events. 

"The delegates can discuss with participating teams on a possible realignment of the tournament format to get amicable solutions," he told a press conference at the World Trade Centre here today. 

The typhoon, locally known as Tisoy and the 20th typhoon to hit the country this year, is expected to make landfall over Metro Manila tonight till early tomorrow.

The Philippines National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council has warned the public to expect heavy showers with lightning and strong winds.

PHISGOC has already postponed the windsurfing competition which was scheduled to begin yesterday. 

Ramon said the organisers have contingency plans, including having the competitions in indoor venues and without spectators. 

"A few days ago I gave instructions to all the competition managers and venue managers to be ready with their contingency plans. This has been in place from a long time ago, there is an operating policy for all competition and venue managers including technical delegates in case there are typhoons.

"We have also instructed the suppliers for the venues, especially for outdoor sports, to put down the tents in advance since yesterday. 

"Indoor sports for example basketball and volleyball can continue if there are typhoons but without spectators, it has been done before as long as the category (strength) of the typhoon is still manageable.

-- BERNAMA