PSC opens track facilities to public in support of active lives

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has thrown its full support behind President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for a healthier, more active citizenry by officially opening its track and field facilities to the public—free of charge.

This initiative follows the President’s remarks during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 28, where he raised concern over the increasing weight among Filipinos aged 20 and above. 

Marcos urged the public to engage in physical activities and called on local government units (LGUs) to revitalize public spaces such as parks and plazas to encourage outdoor movement.

“Let’s promote the organization of games, sports leagues, fun runs, fun walks, as well as aerobics and Zumba sessions,” said Marcos. He also announced plans to implement “car-free Sundays” in more cities, expanding on similar programs already in place in parts of Metro Manila.

In direct response, the PSC released an advisory on its official Facebook page on Tuesday, July 29, warmly inviting the public to visit and use their facilities. 

“Tuloy po kayo,” the PSC wrote in its post. “The PSC track and field facilities in the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex (Malate), the Philippine Sports Arena Complex (Pasig), and PSC Baguio (Teachers Camp) are now open to the public, free of charge from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily.”

While access is now available, the PSC noted that operations are still being fine-tuned. “Kindly note that we are still fine-tuning our operations, but we are happy to welcome you all back to the tracks,” the agency added.

When asked about the possibility of opening earlier in the day, the PSC explained that morning slots are reserved for national athletes. “Various national teams regularly train in the morning, so the hours were adjusted to maintain optimal training conditions for them,” the agency responded in a comment.

With track ovals now open in Manila, Pasig, and Baguio, and the President rallying the nation toward active living, the stage is set for more Filipinos to take charge of their health—one lap, step, or stretch at a time.