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Men work on the Track Oval field inside the Philippine Sports Institute Complex in Pasig on November 6, 2019. George Calvelo, ABS-CBN News/File
MANILA -- President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has tasked the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to open its track and field ovals to the public, in a bid to encourage Filipinos to embrace a more active lifestyle.
In his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, Marcos said the Filipinos can now use the track and field ovals in Pasig, Manila, and Baguio for free.
"Upang makapag-jogging na kayo nang libre," said Marcos.
This is part of his administration's efforts to promote an active lifestyle among Filipinos, along with sportsfests and fun runs.
"Nakikita natin ang sobrang pagtaas ng timbang ng ating mga kababayang edad 20 at pataas," said Marcos. "Kaya sikapin nating maging mas aktibo ang ating pamumuhay araw-araw."
"Ipalaganap natin ang pagsasagawa ng mga palaro at mga paliga, mga fun runs at fun walks, pati na rin mga pa-aerobics at pa-zumba," he added.
Aside from the PSC track and field ovals, local government units were also tasked to open their parks and plazas to give their constituents a place to exercise.
"Magpapatupad tayo ng mga 'car-free Sundays,' tulad nang ginagawa sa ilang lungsod dito sa Metro Manila, sa Baguio, Cebu, Iloilo at Davao," he added.
Marcos also promised full support for aspiring Filipino athletes and bared plans to create a new nationwide program for sports development.
READ: Marcos Jr. vows full support for athletes, eyes nationwide sports dev't program