Mt. Province hopeful of more athletes
BONTOC, Mountain Province – More children in this capital town are expected to engage in sports following the conduct of a three-day “Children’s Games Sport for Peace” as part of the activities in celebration of the 109th Founding Anniversary of Bontoc and 13th Am-among Festival.
Participating children below 12 years old from the 16 barangays of Bontoc said they enjoyed the games and wished that the sports fest will be repeated next year.
Among the games conducted are kadangkadang (wooden stilts), sangkor (arm wrestling), tufay (javelin throw), fagfagto (shotput), sepak takraw, archery, volleyball, football, baseball, softball and road run for three and five kilometer categories.
Manuel Bitog, acting chief and person –incharge of the overall sports program of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) sports facilities division remarked the PSC chaired by William Ramirez believes enrichment of skills, techniques and knowledge in sports should start in the grassroots.
Thus, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Mountain Province through its Provincial Sports Development Office (PSDO) and the Municipal Government of Bontoc, the PSC has brought its services closer to the people.
Bitog added this is not only an activity to promote health and wellness, but it is also an opportunity for the children to appreciate sports and identify what kind of sports best interests them.
Bontoc Mayor Franklin Odsey and provincial sports development officer Arnaldo Petten joined the parents, barangay officials and municipal officials in expressing their gratitude to the PSC.
Odsey said this is the first time the sports competition for children below 12 years is included in the celebration of the founding anniversary of Bontoc as he expressed optimism more children will engage and excel in sports based on what they have experienced.
Medals and certificate of achievement were awarded to the first three winners in every games while certificate of participation were given to all participants.
Pastor Manuel Imatong of the Gospel Light Bible Church, in his message, said the event is an avenue in instilling to the children the importance of camaraderie and sportsmanship. Imatong also encouraged the participants to always practice selfdiscipline.
Aside from the “Children’s Games Sport for Peace,” a Barangay Education Sports Seminar was conducted by the PSC which was participated in by barangay officials of the province. Alpine Killa/ Mt. Province PIO