Opinions
World Police and Fire Games
Philippine delegation to compete in MB
Photo credit: 2023 World Police and Fire Games FB page
Manitoba will host the 2023 World Police and Fire Games from July 28 – August 6, 2023.
Held biennially, this Olympic-style competition brings together over 10,000 athletes representing law enforcement and firefighters from more than 70 countries to compete in a number of sporting events, ranging from archery to wrestling.
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Kenneth Salazar |
As one of the largest sporting events ever hosted in Winnipeg, over 25,000 people are expected to attend the games, which will help stimulate new business growth and economic opportunities for the city.
The Philippine delegation will be headed by P/Lieutenant General Rhodel Sermonia, the Deputy Chief for Administration based in Camp Crame and the second highest ranking police general of the Philippine National Police.
According to Kenneth Salazar, a local volunteer for the games, the Filipino community is preparing for a welcome testimonial dinner for the Philippine delegation on July 31 at the PCCM. Details will be announced once finalized.
“Volunteering for 2023 World Police and Fire Games is a great opportunity for me because I will be serving the community, becoming an ambassador of goodwill, and best of all, cheering for my kababayans competing in their respective events. I am glad and happy to see them waving our Philippine flag!” said Salazar.
Past host countries include the US, Australia, Canada, China, Northern Ireland, Spain, and Sweden. As a celebration of firefighters and law enforcement worldwide, the size and scope of the World Police & Fire Games continues to grow. Attendance in the games has been increasing as have the number of nations involved throughout its history. The 2011 WPFG in New York holds the current attendance record with more than 16,000 athletes competing in 67 sports from almost 70 countries. More than 10,000 competitors competed in the Chengdu, China Games in 2019. With family and traveling companions, overall attendance topped 25,000.
“The 2023 World Police and Fire Games in Winnipeg is an exciting opportunity for our community to play host to those in emergency service from across the globe and share what makes our city and province so special,” said Gord Friesen, Co-Chair, WPFG 2023 Host Society Inc.
