MANILA, Philippines – Comedienne Ai-Ai Delas Alas appealed to the Filipino people to be thankful and welcome the country’s hosting of the 30th Southeast Asian (Sea) Games and not focus on the logistical problems.
Ai-Ai made the appeal as she agreed with boxing champion and Senator Manny Pacquiao’s sentiment that the country should first unite in celebration of the games.
Unite now and talk SEA Games woes later – Pacquiao
“Tama senator … parang awa nyo na wala naman na munang nega (You’re right, senator. Please, let’s not be negative),” Ai-Ai posted on Instagram Wednesday, sharing a news article of Pacquiao saying that the country must unite for the games.
“[E]njoy naten ang SEA Games.. saka na kayo mag away away pag tapos na kasi para naman hindi nakakahiya sa mga bisita (Let’s enjoy the Sea Games, we can argue about it when it’s done so we don’t look bad to the visitors),” the comedienne added.
Ai-Ai is not the first celebrity to call for support on the Philippines’ hosting of the games.
Robin Padilla earlier called for support for the Games and Filipino athletes rather than focusing only on problems encountered by organizers and delegates.
Now isn’t the time to highlight SEA Games hosting woes – Robin Padilla
Athletes, sports officials and netizens criticized at the Games organizers over issues of unfinished venues and logistical woes, days before the games formally open on November 30.