The Philippine Sports Commission on Thursday said that a number of national events has been postponed, as the country deals with the 2019 novel coronavirus.

The PSC has also proposed moving the 10th ASEAN Paragames at a later date.

In a press conference, PSC chairman William Ramirez said the National Sports Summit 2020, the Philippine National Games, Batang Pinoy, and Children’s Games will be rescheduled, although no dates were mentioned.

Seminars and other gatherings with 40 or more participants have also been shelved indefinitely.

Ramirez said that his office also recommended the postponement of the 10th ASEAN Paragames, which is penciled for March 20 to 28.

“We have a board resolution advising the Paralympics to possibly postpone the games,” he said.

The decision comes down to the Philippine Paralympic Committee.

PPC president Mike Barredo said he will fly to Thailand on Friday to discuss the issue with the ASEAN Para Sports Federation.

Amid the global spread of the 2019 nCoV acute respiratory disease, the PSC is focused on the welfare of the athletes and coaches bound for the Tokyo Olympics later this year.

“In terms of preventive measures, we have put out information materials for our national athletes and coaches,” said Marc Velasco, the PSC chief of staff and the national training director.

“The PSC Board will not approve any foreign trips and exposures to China. Caution will be exercised on allowing athletes and coaches traveling to other countries for international competitions

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