Palaro 2018 opens
Duterte hails athletes as champions, urged them to also excel in academics
VIGAN, ILOCOS SUR -- President Rodrigo R. Duterte hailed the Palarong Pambansa athletes as "champions already" yet he urged them to not just excel in sports but also in their studies as he addressed some 10,000 delegates and spectators during yesterday's opening ceremonies held at the President Elpidio Quirino Stadium here yesterday.
"For student athletes who came from the provinces, congratulations! The fact that you are here with us today is a proof of your determination and excellence in your chosen sports that makes all of you winners and champions already," Duterte, who read a prepared speech, said.
He, however, said that while the athletes devote themselves in sports, "Do your best to also excel in your studies, too. Your ability to balance academics and your other interests measures your aptitude for skills such as multitasking, time management and decisionmaking skills that you will need as you take on greater responsibilities in the future," Duterte, who read a prepared speech, said.
He said that the Palarong Pambansa is more than just a showcase of the Filipinos' talents and skills in sports as it serves as training ground for future leaders and national builders whose values and principles are founded on perseverance, discipline, teamwork, integrity and love for country.
Duterte, who was accompanied by executive secretary Salvador Medialdea, Presidential Assistant Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go, added the government remains steadfast in promoting and encouraging sports programs, supporting athletes especially when they compete in international events.
The President also addressed the parents of the athletes: "There is no better way to show your love for your children than to help them realize their potentials. Support them as they discover themselves and explore their limitless possibilities of their growth and development."
Sports, he continued, is an avenue to divert the youth from illegal drugs, criminality and other lawless acts.
"Being a delegate of the Palaro is one of the many journeys of your success, embody good values and enhance your skills for this is the beginning of your participation in nation building," he added.
Duterte assured that the government will continue its campaign to eradicate social ills to ensure a safe and progressive tomorrow for them and for the next generation.
Duterte concluded, "Rest assured that this administration will never stop working hard to make the Philippines a better nation. We, however, can't do this alone. I call on your participation in making our plans and programs tangible."
He also thanked the province of Ilocos Sur, led by Governor Ryan Luis Singson in partnership with Bantay Mayor Samuel Parilla II, for hosting this year's Palaro.
Department of Education (Deped) Secretary Leonor Briones, for her part, thanked the President for its all-out support to the department, pouring in a budget of P100 billion.
She also thanked the President for not intervening with the "complicated process" of selecting next year's Palaro host.
Just last Saturday, Davao City won the hosting rights of the Palarong Pambansa 2019 during a secret ballotting conducted during the meeting of the Palarong Pambansa Board, which Briones chairs.
Celebrities Bituin Escalante and Kuh Ledesma led the singing of national anthem and entertained the spectators, respectively, while the the country's sports legends led by Olympians Hidilyn Diaz, Onyok Velasco and Eric Buhain along with long jump queen, World Cup of Bowling four-time champion Paeng Nepomuceno, and world-renowned cue master Efren "Bata" Reyes led the entry of colors.
Youth Olympic Games archery gold medalist Luis Gabriel Moreno, meanwhile, wowed the audience when he lit the friendship cauldron by using the bow and arrow.
Except from a few who collapsed due to extreme heat (31 degrees), the opening program turned out to be a success as it wrapped up with a colorful fireworks display.