Football can help in the transition back to normality.
Less than two weeks ago, President Rodrigo Duterte declared that Marawi City has been liberated from terrorist influence. The long conflict left more than 1000 people dead and displaced hundreds of thousands of citizens.
Damaged houses, buildings, and a mosque are seen inside Marawi City, Philippines, October 25, 2017. REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco
Soon after the declaration was issued, Hernandez Robben Elleosse used Facebook to urge the Philippines Football Federation (PFF) to conduct football clinics and other football-related activities in the city. He believes getting children engaged in football will help them adjust from the conflict. “They don’t have anything else to do. Instead of playing, study and dreaming, they hang out or participate in rebellious activities,” he wrote.
The Philippines Azkals Manager, Dan Palami, quickly responded: “The PfFF Board in its last board meeting–prior to the liberation of Marawi–had already made a resolution to enjoin the Azkals to conduct activities for displaced residents living in evacuation areas. Of course, it’s not as easy as it sounds. Several levels of authorization are required to get the clearance. Our provincial FA’s near the area are actively coordinating with local authorities regarding this matter.”
Others concur with this approach.
“We’ll look into doing something for the youth of Marawi,” Ernest Nierras, coach, Stallion Laguna FC
“When the war in Marawi broke out, the PFF was there,” Nierras said. “We did this (organized football activities) in Bohol after the earthquake, and we had another clinic in Lanao with the Malditas, as well.”
“It’s a very good idea,” Nierras concluded.
