Legarda: Palarong Pambansa, a Venue for Youth Dev’t

Senator Loren Legarda today stressed the importance of the Palarong Pambansa in developing positive values in the youth.

Legarda made the statement as the annual multi-sport event for student-athletes opens today. This year’s host is the Senator’s home province, Antique.

“The Palarong Pambansa is not only geared towards sports development but also serves as a venue for instilling the values of self-discipline, respect for law and order, sportsmanship and camaraderie. It prepares the youth for life’s greater challenges and to become responsible citizens and future leaders,” said Legarda.

“This is why, our government and our communities must provide the enabling environment to hone their talents, improve their strengths, overcome their weaknesses, and ensure the promotion and protection of their physical, moral, social, intellectual and spiritual well-being,” she added.

The Senator said that competitive sports, physical education, recreation and active living must be encouraged among our youth through inter-sectoral cooperation.

“I salute our athletes for their hard work, perseverance and discipline. When you are an athlete, it is not enough that you have the talent or skill. You must keep getting better, yet you must also be ready to accept defeat,” she said.

To the participants, Legarda said, “I know that all of you are here to win. In the end, whether you win or lose, the more important thing is to give your best and allow the experience to make you a better person. Be grateful for the opportunity. Value the experience. Build friendships.”

This year’s Palarong Pambansa will be held in San Jose, Antique onApril 23-29, 2017 with the theme, “2017 Palarong Pambansa: Converges Youth Power, Builds Sustainable Future”.