ILOCOS SUR, Philippines — President Rodrigo Roa Duterte officially declares the opening of the Palarong Pambansa 2018 at the Elpidio Quirino Stadium in Bantay, Ilocos Sur on Sunday, April 15, 2018.
In his message, Duterte said , “To the student athletes who have flown all the way from their provinces to compete and represent their respective schools and regions, congratulations.”
“The fact that you are here with us today is enough proof of your determination and excellence in your chosen sports, and that makes all of you winners and champions already,” he added.
The President encouraged the athletes from 17 regions of the country to embody good values and enhance their skills noting that their participation in the national sports event “is the beginning of your greater participation in nation-building.”
“Your ability to balance academics and your other interests measures your aptitude for skills such as multi-tasking, time management and decision-making—skills that you will need as you take on greater responsibilities in the future,” Duterte stressed.
The Chief Executive then called on the parents to support their children as they discover themselves and explore the limitless possibilities for their growth and development.
During the opening ceremony, the President witnesses the hoisting of the Palarong Pambansa banner administered by Philippine Sports Commissioner Ramon Fernandez, Department of Education (DepEd) Undersecretary for Administration Alain Del Pascua, Assistant Secretary for Regional Operations and Procurement Revsee Escobedo, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Assistant Secretary for Mindanao Affairs and Special Concerns Marjorie Jalosjos, and Ilocos Sur Vice Governor Jeremias Singson. Meanwhile, DepEd Regional Directors and Regional Sports Officers facilitate the hoisting of regional delegation banners followed by the lighting of the friendship cauldron.
Education Secretary Leonor Briones gave an inspiration message.
As host of the Palarong Pambansa 2018, the local government officials of Ilocos Sur set the Quirino Stadium as the main sports complex with its 40 playing venues where the various sports will be held. A total of 1,311 medals will be awarded to the winners. – Editha Z. Caduaya with PR from PND and DepEd
