Message of Senator Loren Legarda at the 2017 Palarong Pambansa

Message of Senator Loren Legarda

Palarong Pambansa 2017

23 April 2017 | San Jose, Antique

It is a proud moment for me to see our young, talented athletes gathered here today in my home province, Antique.

Congratulations because you are here to represent your region. You had to outdo other athletes in your school and in the district, provincial and regional meets to be able to make it here.

Saludo ako sa inyo dahil sa inyong determinasyon at kasipagan. Hindi biro ang mga pag-eensayo na kailangan ninyong pagdaanan. Kaya naman hinahangaan ko ang ating mga atleta dahil ibang uri ng disiplina ang kailangan upang mapagtagumpayan ang bawat laban.

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.

This is the true value of the Palarong Pambansa. It 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.

That 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.

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.

Good luck to all of our youth athletes! Mabuhay!