President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed optimism that young Filipino student-athletes today might become tomorrow’s international sensations.
“Ngayong araw, dito sa Palarong Pambansa kayo naman kasali. Sa susunod, kayo na ang kinatawan ng Pilipinas,” President Marcos said in his speech during the Palarong Pambansa 2025 opening ceremony at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium in Laoag City on Saturday.
The President acknowledged Filipino athletes who became international sensations, including Manny Pacquiao, Hidilyn Diaz, Carlos Yulo, Nesthy Petecio, EJ Obiena, and Alex Eala.
The Chief Executive described them as living proofs of how dedication combined with government support can propel Filipino talents to world-class levels.
Filipino athletes who brought pride and honor to the country include Pacquiao, an eight-division World Boxing Champion and former senator; Diaz, Olympic gold medalist in Weightlifting (Tokyo 2020); Yulo, World Champion and Olympic gymnast; Petecio, Olympic silver medalist in Boxing (Tokyo 2020); Obiena, Asian Record Holder and World Medalist in Pole Vault; and Eala Junior Grand Slam Champion and professional tennis player.
President Marcos declared the government’s full support for young Filipino student-athletes, pledging that his administration will nurture their talents and prepare them to become future national and international champions.
The Chief Executive urged the youth to view the Palarong Pambansa as the first step toward global sports arenas, like the Asian Games and the Olympics.
President Marcos also committed to the student-athletes that the government will continue to provide better training facilities, scholarships, health programs, and sports science support, all designed to help them reach their full potential.
“Hangga’t sa abot ng aming makakaya, ginagawa po namin ang lahat para matulungan kayong maging mahusay na manlalaro,” the President said.
President Marcos urged the student athletes to maintain a balance between training and education, reminding them that being disciplined students and responsible individuals are essential to becoming true champions.
“Mag-training araw-araw, mag-aral nang mabuti, sumunod kayo sa inyong mga magulang, at alagaan ninyo ang inyong kalusugan,” the President said.
President Marcos’s commitment extends beyond physical training, reflecting his “Bagong Pilipinas” vision, in which youth empowerment through sports is a priority and athletes receive the support and guidance needed to succeed.
The Palarong Pambansa 2025 edition in Ilocos Norte showcases 24 regular sports, such as athletics, basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, taekwondo, and swimming. Weightlifting debuts as a demonstration sport while kickboxing, girls’ football, and girls’ futsal will be staged as exhibition events.
A dedicated category for athletes with special needs features para-athletics, para-swimming, bocce, and goalball, underscoring the event’s commitment to inclusivity. | PND
