NEWS

PSC Chair urges youth to pursue athletic dreams 

despite global conflict

CANDON CITY, Ilocos Sur- Amid the ongoing international crisis, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio called on athletes to remain steadfast in pursuing their sports ambitions.

Addressing over 7000 athletes during the Opening Program of Region 1 Athletic Association (R1AA) Meet, Gregorio emphasized that global conflicts should not hinder the dreams and determination of athletes.

“Bakit natin pipigilan ang palaro at pangarap ng mga bata dahil sa kaguluhan ng matatanda? Yung ambisyon, tagumpay at pangarap ng mga bata ay huwag po nating ipagkait. At dapat ituloy natin ang ganitong mga palaro because sports is good news,” he said.

He stressed that the spirit of competition must prevail, serving as a vital source of hope and inspiration during

these challenging times.

Further, he called on DepEd officials and local organizers to continue supporting grassroots sports programs regardless of the issues facing the world today.

Beyond the pursuit of medals, Gregorio reminded the athletes to compete with humility and honor because the true essence of the R1AA Meet lies in character building.

“Naniniwala po ako katulad nang sinabi ng ating LGU leaders na dapat matutunan natin ang sportsmanship and humility. Manalo, matalo, ang laro natin ay para kay mama, para kay papa, para sa bayan, para sa gintong medalya sa Olimpiyada,” he expressed.

Meanwhile, the chairman also took the opportunity to commend the Local Government of Candon City for providing a "world-class" venue and displaying exceptional hospitality to the visiting delegations.

“I’ve been attending regional meets all over the country in the last few months. Ngayon lang po ako nakapunta sa regional meet ng palaro  sa isang napakagandang arena,” he said.

He ended his message with a bold vision that the talents gathered in Candon City would soon represent the Philippines on the global sporting arena.

“One day, in the near future we will see Region 1 student- athletes compete int the South-East Asian Games, Asian Games and in the Olympics,” he concluded.

via James Harley R. Giron & R1AA Media Team