DAPITAN CITY, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines – The country’s top two officials are expected to serve separately as main speakers in the 2011 Palarong Pambansa, the country’s premier sportsfest, which reels off in this Shrine City on May 8, it was learned here recently.

Former Zamboanga del Norte Rep. Romeo G. Jalosjos, chairman of the Palaro executive committee, explained that due to President Aquino’s previously scheduled engagements, the Chief Executive will address the National

Schools Games participants on its closing program on May 14, while Vice President Jejomar Binay will deliver the Palaro keynote speech on its opening rites.

Both activities, Jalosjos said, will be staged at the main grandstand of the Dapitan-based Jose Rizal Memorial State University here whose 10-hectare sports complex will also serve as the main venue of the week-long athletic derby.

Host Region 9 office of the Department of Education (DepEd-9) Director Walter O. Albos said both President Aquino and Vice President Binay will be introduced by Education Secretary Armin A. Luistro.