Iloilo up as SEA games host if… 

By Florence F. Hibionada

Iloilo may after all be the host for one of the competitions in the forthcoming international sports event, the 23 rd South East Asian Games (SEAG).  With criticisms hurled against the supposed inadequate representation of Ilonggo officials as compared to counterparts in Bacolod City, The News Today learned of Friday's communication to Mayor Jerry Treñas on the matter.

Iloilo may be the venue of the Women's Football Competition if it meets specific guidelines as laid down by the Philippine Football Federation. 

In a letter obtained by The News Today, acting Federation General Secretary Domeka Garamendi identified the basic specifics – standard size pitch football field, lights minimum of which is “1200lux” and yes, strictly airconditioned dressing rooms, referee rooms, medical rooms, doping rooms, post match conference rooms, media room, secretariat room and not to forget, a “VIP” lounge.

Further requirements of these rooms pointed out the need for a dressing and referee rooms not only with the basic shower and toilets but must be equipped with a massage table and whiteboard. 

The media room must also be at its best with computers, printers, photocopiers, international direct-dialing services, fax lines and unlimited use of the internet.  The “VIP lounge” must of course be air-conditioned and with private toilets.

For the football equipment, host venue must ensure an electronic manual scoreboard and two pairs of brand new standard-size football goals.  All expenses for rehabilitation is also expected to be shouldered by either the Iloilo City government or the Iloilo Provincial Government.

And there's more.  Roundtrip airfare of 24 persons of the Philippine National Women's team to and from Manila, accommodation and food in the entire duration of their Iloilo stay November 20 to December 4, 2005 are chargeable to the hosts. 

There is also internal transport of at least one tourist bus and one car to be made available for the group.  Same expected expenses for all members of the six other participating teams, 18 international technical officials, one local official and two persons from the Asian Football Confederation.  Altogether, at least seven tourist buses are needed and ten cars. 

Special requirement of a 5-star hotel with single occupancy are also to be observed for the two representatives of the Asian Football Confederation alongside personal transport and all expenses surrounding accommodation and food.

Takers, anyone? Mayor Jerry Treñas in an interview over Bombo Radyo said things will be discussed this week.