Six officials and personnel of the Philippine Sports Commission found themselves trapped in Marawi at the height of the violent skirmishes between security forces and the local terrorist Maute group, leaving residents and visitors alike unable to leave the city.
PSC chairman William “Butch” Ramirez said those caught inside the city when violence struck on Tuesday comprised of five women and one man.
The PSC officials were in Marawi City for the conduct of a barangay sports education seminar when violence erupted.
Ramirez did not give names pending their extrication from the city.
He said the group was as of Wednesday seeking clearance from military authorities to leave the city for Iligan City on its way to Davao City to join an ongoing PSC-backed barangay sports program seminar.
“It was sad as it was shocking considering that the incident (and the declaration of Martial Law) will affect the whole of Mindanao,” he said.
He added that the group was shocked because it came after it visited Lake Lanao and “was full of appreciation and praise.”
Commissioner Charles Raymond Maxey said he has planned to join the PSC officials in Marawi City on Tuesday but backed out because of the birthday of his son.
Ramirez said his office was seeking guidance from Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio on whether or not it was advisable to push through with the Summer Children’s Games 2017 that are schedule to kick-off Thursday at the Rizal Park.
The summer games form part of the PSC’s Sports for Peace program conceptualized by Ramirez himself.
The 30 barangays, representing the three congressional districts of the city, will field two teams each in the boys 12-under 3-on-3 basketball, one team each for girls 12-under volleyball and 10 participants each for Larong Pinoy.
Games will be played at the Rizal Park, Davao City Police Office court and Almendras Gym Davao City Recreation Center.
