Manila: The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is planning to build training centers in strategic cities across the country to further boost grassroots development. Among the places being considered are Laoag City in Ilocos Norte, Clark in Pampanga, Tayabas in Quezon Province, Ormoc City in Leyte, Bacolod City in Negros Occidental, and urbanized areas in Mindanao like Bukidnon, Zamboanga City, and General Santos City.

According to Philippines News Agency, PSC Chairperson Patrick Gregorio announced plans to establish a water sports training center in Siargao, a popular surfing destination in the south. "We must develop these centers to give young athletes an equal chance of honing their talents and avoid them being taken away from their families," Gregorio said in a news release. This move aligns with a directive from the Office of the President to set up regional training centers.

Gregorio, who recently arrived in Chengdu, China, to support the 47 athletes competing in the World Games, emphasized the importance of creating a framework that benefits both the PSC and stakeholders. He met with Muay president and Team Philippines chef de mission Stephen Arapoc before the opening ceremony at the Tianfu International Convention Center.

The PSC chief highlighted the need for training centers to adopt sports specific to the local needs and assets. Gregorio noted that Zamboanga City should serve as a key training center for weightlifting due to the influence of Hidilyn Diaz. Similarly, he suggested Baguio City for Muay Thai, Cagayan de Oro and General Santos City for boxing, and Bacolod for football.

In addition, the PSC and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) are set to sign a memorandum of agreement on August 13, designating New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac, as a training center. The PSC-run National Academy of Sports, located inside the NCC Sports Complex, boasts world-class athletics and aquatics facilities.