Marawi City is emerging as a hub for sports development in Mindanao, hosting the recent Mindanao Sports Summit organized by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) in partnership with the Bangsamoro Sports Commission (BSC) and Mindanao State University (MSU). The two-day event, held on November 6–7, marked a pivotal step in using sports as a tool for peace, community building, and youth empowerment.
“This is more than a summit, it’s a movement toward a resilient, peace-driven sporting future for our region,” said Paisalin Tago, president of the MSU System, during the opening ceremony.
Once affected by conflict, Marawi is now being positioned as a springboard for dreams, where young athletes can hone their skills and communities can rally around shared goals.
Promoting Inclusive and Sustainable Sports
The summit tackled essential topics for long-term sports growth, including sports psychology and science, coaching and management strategies, women’s participation in athletics, and media promotion. Organizers stressed that these elements are vital for nurturing talent and creating an inclusive sports ecosystem across Mindanao.
Key speakers included Richard Lim of Karate Pilipinas, Karen Caballero of the Pilipinas Sepak Takraw Federation, Marcus Manalo of the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines, and representatives from the Philippine Sports Institute. Their insights emphasized the importance of structured training, effective management, and community support in building future champions.
Fostering Unity and Resilience
PSC Chairperson Patrick Gregorio highlighted Marawi’s potential to inspire hope and unity through sports. “Marawi is the land of promise, and we are committed to supporting its youth, athletes, and community every step of the way,” he said.
BSC Chairperson Arsalan Diamaoden described the summit as “a celebration of unity, resilience, and shared purpose among all who believe in the power of sports to transform lives and communities.” The gathering also showcased Marawi’s rich cultural identity, sending a strong message that peace and progress can be achieved when talent, passion, and community engagement come together.
Through initiatives like the Mindanao Sports Summit, Marawi is not only cultivating athletes but also shaping a generation of leaders who will carry Mindanao toward a future defined by skill, opportunity, and unity.
