THE Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) is committed to elevating collegiate sports in the Philippines to international standards.

This initiative follows the PRISAA National Board of Trustees’ adoption of the theme “Sustaining the country’s inclusive grassroots sports program as a pathway to the Olympics,” outlined in a comprehensive 12-year plan announced in a news release on Tuesday.

Moving beyond its traditional role of organizing an annual national competition, PRISAA has positioned itself as the lead implementor of the national grassroots initiative. This effort will be executed in close collaboration with the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), Department of Education (DepEd), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), focusing primarily on developing future Olympians.

A commitment to this new direction was formalized with the signing of a pledge by 17 regional presidents during the PRISAA National Strategic Conference held on October 12 in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan province.

“We are dedicated to nurturing talent, fostering excellence, and creating pathways for our student-athletes to not only excel locally but to reach the highest levels of competition, including as future Olympians,” the pledge states.

“Together, we will work with integrity, passion, and determination to ensure that PRISAA plays a vital role in shaping the future of sports in the Philippines and preparing our athletes for global success.”

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Commissioner Edward Hayco, recognized for his role in Cebu City’s successful grassroots program, also attended the meeting.

In addition, PRISAA National Executive Director Elbert Atilano has called for a General Assembly meeting with the 17 regional executive directors scheduled for November 9-10 in Zamboanga City. A broader assembly, involving 400 athletic directors and sports leaders from member schools, will also take place in January next year to further solidify the mission of producing Olympians for the country, as formulated during the strategic planning.