Bohol is now ready to host the National Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) which starts on Sunday, said an official.

This will be the second time that the province will host the national event. The last time the PRISAA was held in Bohol was in 1971 when the late Lino Chatto was governor and Venancio Inting was Tagbilaran mayor.

According to PRISAA president Fr. Vic Uy, the meet is expected to draw at least 6,000 student-athletes and coaches from schools in 17 regions.

Play areas and billeting venues are already ready for use, Uy reported Friday in a meeting with local officials led by Provincial Administrator Alfonso Damalerio II at the Governor’s Mansion.

The weeklong event will mostly be held at the Carlos P. Garcia Sports Complex in Tagbilaran City until April 27.

Opening ceremonies will commence with a Holy Mass which will be led by Bishop Abet Uy at the St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Tagbilaran City and a parade from Plaza Rizal to CPG Sports Complex.

Makati Rep. Manuel Monsour del Rosario, chef-de-mission of the Philippine team to the 30th Southeast Asian Games in 2019, will be the opening ceremonies’ keynote speaker.

Other officials including Commission on Higher Education of the Philippines (CHED) officer-in-charge Prospero De Vera III, Philippine Sports Commission chairman William Ramirez, Gov. Edgar Chatto and Tagbilaran City Mayor John Geesnell Yap II are also expected to address the PRISAA participants.

Meanwhile, security forces are also ready for deployment to ensure the safety of the delegates.

Over 700 police officers ate set to be stationed across key areas including billeting areas and playing venues during the weeklong event.

In February, Bohol hosted the annual Central Visayas Athletic Association meet which drew around 10,000 delegates including students, coaches and support staff.

Tight security measures across Tagbilaran City and several towns were also implemented to secure the participants. (R. Tutas)