Palaro boosts Davao economy

By CHARLES RAYMOND A. MAXEY
THE 2015 Palarong Pambansa will generate a huge economic impact not only for the host province but also the entire Davao Region, Davao del Norte Gov. Rodolfo R. del Rosario said on Friday.
Del Rosario said in terms of revenue alone, Davao stands to earn around P100 million out of the week-long sporting event for the country’s secondary and elementary athletes.
“We are not counting the money that we are spending, we are counting the money that will be derived out of it (Palaro),” Del Rosario said during the regular Hermes Club media forum at the Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao.
And although he said the revenue could go more than P100 million for the entire region, the economic impact the Palaro brings is immeasurable
Del Rosario said all the localities stand to earn revenues from the Palaro as more than 10,000 athletes, coaches, officials and spectators are taking part in the event which will be held from May 3 to 9.
Each Palaro athlete will have an allowance of P500 to spend daily, according to Del Rosario.
Around 200 government and delegation officials are also staying in Davao City for the duration of the meet.
On top of this, Del Rosario said the host province and the region will be highlighted in television coverage throughout the duration of the sporting spectacle.
Davao del Norte spent around P500 million in its preparation for the annual event, including some P350 million in infrastructure.
 The governor said Tagum City, where the main facilities are situated, earned P20 million in revenues in hosting last year’s Davao Regional Athletic Association (DAVRAA) Meet and another P60 from the PRISAA National Finals.
 “With Palaro, you can just imagine its economic impact on the region,” del Rosario said.
 A total of 17 regions are competing in the Palarong Pambansa featuring 23 events.