MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--The Bangsamoro Sports Commission (BSC) underscored the pivotal role of sports in advancing societal progress and fostering regional peace and development within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). 

During the virtual unveiling of its 12-point sports agenda, BSC Executive Director Saliwardi Alba emphasized the critical connection between the health and fitness of the populace and the overall strength and progress of BARMM.

"The strength and progress of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) are highly dependent on the health and fitness of its people. Sports and physical activities are vital in promoting a healthy and fit citizenry," he said.

Alba outlined an agenda promoting a healthier, more active lifestyle for the Bangsamoro people. The plan includes efforts to empower athletes, provide opportunities for employment and education through scholarships, and keep the youth away from harmful activities, such as drug abuse.

At ang pinakaimportante ay mapapalayo natin ang mga kabataan sa droga at sa mga masasamang activities. Basically, the Bangsamoro Sports Commission is building a better people," he stated.

Panoro Maruhom, the founder and chairman of Marawi Legend Basketball Club, expressed his support for the BSC, emphasizing the importance of sports programs to keep youth engaged in beneficial activities and away from detrimental habits.

The 12-point agenda also focuses on constructing and enhancing state-of-the-art sports facilities, investing in training programs and sports management courses, ensuring elite athletes receive necessary resources and training to compete at the highest levels on the national and international stage, and nurturing young talents and laying the foundation for a new generation of skilled athletes.

It also specifies the development of the region's sports tourism potential, making sports more inclusive, giving athletes a platform to showcase their talents and competitive spirit through sports competitions, and establishing strong ties with national and international sports organizations.

The agenda integrates sports education into school curricula, preserves traditional sports and games, and fosters an environment ensuring equal opportunities and support for women and men in sports.

Dr. Hendely Adlawan, dean of Mindanao State University's College of Sports, Physical Education, and Recreation, supported the gender equality initiative, stating that sports are for everyone, regardless of gender, religion, or traditional practices.

"In sports, everybody is equal because everybody needs to be totally fit," she said.

MSU Karate Club member Ahmad Ronsing is grateful for being recognized by BSC as an elite athlete.

Ahmad Ronsing, a member of the MSU Karate Club, expressed gratitude for being recognized as an elite athlete, hoping that his experience would motivate other youth to pursue excellence in sports.

"Magandang pakinggan na elite athlete ka kasi nasa top level ka. I hope na yung experience ko ay makainspire din sa ibang kabataan," he said.

The virtual unveiling of the sports agenda is one of the activities lined up by BSC for the 5th founding anniversary of the BARMM under the theme "A Journey Towards Mutual Understanding, Peaceful Co-Existence and a Shared Future in the Bangsamoro." (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)