Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Thursday encouraged Filipinos to take advantage of the Philippine Sports Commission’s (PSC) track and field facilities that were opened for public use pursuant to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive issued in his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) last Monday.
In his SONA, the President ordered local government units to open parks, plazas, track and field ovals, and other similar open spaces to Filipinos who wish to exercise for improved health.
He also directed the PSC to open its facilities to the public for this purpose.
On Tuesday, the PSC announced that its track and field facilities at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila, the Philsports Complex in Pasig, and the Teachers’ Camp in Baguio City are now open to the public daily, free of charge, from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.
“The President’s order to open public sports spaces — such as parks, plazas, and track and field ovals — comes at the right time. Our health is a treasure that must be protected through proper nutrition, medical consultation when needed, and regular physical activity,” Romualdez said.
He noted that the PSC’s facilities can also serve as safe venues where families can have fun together, and communities can gather to promote wellness through sports and fitness.
“Our country’s open spaces and sports facilities are for everyone to enjoy. I encourage Filipinos of all ages to visit the PSC’s facilities, exercise safely away from traffic, and build healthy habits that will serve them for life,” he added.
Romualdez likewise lauded the President’s holistic approach to promoting better health for Filipinos, improving not only access to nutritious food and healthcare but also ensuring that safe spaces for exercise are available to all.
He underscored the value of activities such as fun runs, dance classes, and local sports programs, noting that various studies have shown that exercise is associated with numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, better mental health, enhanced immune function, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
Some findings show higher levels of physical activity — whether aerobic, strength-based, or flexibility-focused — correlate with lower mortality rates and improved quality of life, and help stimulate the production of endorphins, which promote feelings of happiness and well-being. (PNA)
