PH interested to host 2033 World Games

By Jean Malanum, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – The Philippines could be the first country in Southeast Asia to host the prestigious World Games.

International World Games Association (IWGA) officials, led by president José Perurena López, met with Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Patrick Gregorio and Team Philippines chef de mission Stephen Arapoc, at the Intercontinental Century City Hotel in Chengdu, China Saturday and discussed the 2033 hosting, according to a news release.

“The World Games is all about bringing together the athletes and the community for sports. One important aspect in hosting the Games is the involvement of people. You don’t need new facilities. We don’t give it to big cities. What we want is a host that will bring together its people and give the attendees a tournament they will always remember,” Lopez said.

IWGA chief executive officer Joachim Gossow, deputy CEO Guillaume Felli, and vice president Tom Dielen were also at the meeting.

Gregorio said hosting the 2033 World Games, which features non-Olympic events, is achievable.

“What we can offer is a game with a heartbeat. We can do this for the Philippines. Imagine getting everyone involved to welcome 110 countries and give them the warmth of Filipino hospitality,” the PSC chief said.

He also mentioned the existing facilities in Manila, Clark in Pampanga, and Baguio City to fulfill the requirements of accommodating thousands of athletes, officials and guests.

Bidding is open up to 2026, with IWGA announcing the next host on the same year.

Karlsruhe City in Germany has started preparations for the 2029 edition which is expected to gather 5,000 athletes in 34 sports, some of which can be endorsed as an indigenous game of the host country.