By CARRIE T. ASPA |

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — The Subic gymnasium, which previously housed a basketball court, could now be the best venue for sepak takraw in the history of the Southeast Asian Games.

This was the assessment of Dato Abdul Halim Kader, president of the Asian Sepak Takraw Federation (ASTAF), during a press conference he called at the said venue on Friday.

Kader, who is also the director general of the International Sepak Takraw Federation, is credited for having placed sepak takraw in the sporting world’s map. He is currently the chairman of a task force for sepak takraw to be recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

“Subic is the best venue in the history of sepak takraw in the SEA Games, apart from Singapore,” Kader told the media.

He also complimented the services of Terrace Hotel in the Subic Bay Freeport where the ASTAF technical team is billeted.

The 15-year old Subic gym, which was renovated at a cost of P5.7 million, has two sepak takraw courts and bleachers inside an air-conditioned hall.

Sepak takraw matches will start at the gym today (Dec. 1) with men’s hoop events.

In the Nov. 28 press conference, Kader also called for unity among the technical teams, Phisgoc workers, and players in order to make the event successful.

“Let us all unite to make this a success. Let us give our support to make the SEA Games and sepak takraw a success in the Philippines,” Kader added.

Meanwhile, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Chairman and Administrator Amy T. Eisma said praises like Kader’s make her feel proud of the Subic team who helped ensure that the venues and related facilities for the SEA Games here meet international standards.

“It gives me so much pride because I know SBMA employees have worked many weekends and late nights for this occasion. And to be appreciated as what Mr. Kader did, makes our heart full. It is touching,” Eisma said.

“Let this inspire us and give us the reason to give our all for this historic event,” she added.

The SBMA official also called on stakeholders in the Subic Freeport to work with Phisgoc to make the Subic SEA Games experience a memorable one for all participants. ▼