President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday led the opening rites of the 2023 Palarong Pambansa at the Marikina Sports Center .
“I welcome everyone to the 2023 Palarong Pambansa. Congratulations in advance because as far as we are concerned, you are already winners,” the President said.
Despite the non-stop monsoon rains, President Marcos, accompanied by Vice President and Department of Education Secretary Sara Duterte-Carpio, welcomed young athletes across the country for the annual multi-sports event.
“As you take part in your chosen sport, remember you are already champions. And now you represent your respective schools and localities.
Compete with excellence, fairness, and integrity,” Mr. Marcos said in his speech.
He urged DepEd units to continue harnessing the talents and sportsmanship of the young athletes for their future.
“With consistent and diligent efforts, I am confident that they will eventually bring glory to our nation, not only in the field of sports but also in other endeavors that they will choose to pursue,” the President said.
Mr. Marcos ordered the local government units to encourage school participation in sports competitions and “motivate” students to engage in physical activities.
The Palarong Pambansa returned after its three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic with the theme, “Batang Malakas, Bansang Matatag”.