6,500 runners join Cebu leg of 30th SEA Games torch relay

The drizzle did not stop around 6,500 runners from joining the second leg of the torch run for the 30th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games at the Cebu South Coastal Road on Saturday.

Cebu native Andrew Kim Remolino, who will play in the triathlon event; Tom Romuladez, who will compete in the skating event; and Karatekas Sarah Pangilinan and OJ delos Santos carried the sampaguita-inspired torch, designed by artist-sculptor Daniel dela Cruz.

The mini cauldron was also lighted using the ceremonial torch.

"For me today is a remarkable day of unity towards the success of the SEA Games and this, Cebu, is one of the biggest," Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC) chief operating officer Ramon Suzara said in Ian Cruz's Sunday report on Balitanghali Weekend.

The athletes also said they have a big chance for this year's biennial meet due to the country's hosting.

"I think it's an advantage for us, I mean it makes me more confident kasi home court advantage," Romualdez said.

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) commissioner Ramon Fernandez made sure that the athletes, who will represent the Philippines for the SEA Games, are already in tiptop shape.

"We have prepared our athletes to the fullest and now the games are about to start, I'm telling you the way we look at it, they are very much prepared," he said.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police will enforce a gun ban in Metro Manila, Central Luzon, CALABARZON and La Union from November 20 to December 14.

The torch relay kicked off in Davao City last October 30. The last leg of the torch run will be on November 23 at the Bayanihan Park in Clark, Pampanga.

The biennial meet is scheduled from November 30 to December 11. — Ma. Angelica Garcia/LA, GMA News