Gov't agencies told to support PH hosting of AKF Youth Championships

MANILA – Malacañang has directed all government agencies to extend their full support and cooperation to the country's hosting of the 22nd Asian Karate Federation (AKF) Championships on Aug. 22-25.

The directive covers all government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations and local government units, based on Memorandum Circular (MC) 55 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on July 16 and released by the Palace on Saturday.

The Philippines, through the Philippine Sports Commission, in collaboration with the Karate Pilipinas Sports Federation, Inc., will host the 22nd Asian Karate Federation Cadet, Juniors and U21 Championships.

The event, to be held at the Philsports Multi-Purpose Arena in Pasig City, will be participated in by about 900 athletes from 38 countries.

"The Asian Karate Federation Championships is a highly-anticipated tournament of Karate in Asia, which aims to bring together the best young Karate athletes from across the region," MC 55 read.

"The hosting of said event in the Philippines will not only promote the sport of Karate in the country but will also serve as an opportunity for training of Filipino athletes."

MC 55 also directed the Presidential Communications Office to implement effective measures to inform and encourage the public to support the event.

The order took effect immediately. (PNA)