PSC vows to sustain grassroots program

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) reaffirmed its commitment to hone the next generation of national athletes following the successful staging of the Batang Pinoy National Championships in Puerto Princesa City recently.

PSC executive director Paulo Tatad said seeing around 12,000 athletes compete against each other while enjoying the company of one another motivates them to continue the tournament and sustain the national grassroots program.

“This year, we witnessed the participation of over 12,000 athletes. That is equivalent to 12,000 smiles that erase the fatigue and weariness of the PSC organizers,” Tatad said.

“These smiles are the reason we continue to strive, grow, and improve. At the heart and soul of this event are you — our young athletes. You are the anchor upon which all grassroots sports development efforts are centered.”

While the host for next year’s competition has yet to be determined, he said the local government unit of Puerto Princesa City had raised the standard, thanks to its readily available facilities and its luscious scenery.

Puerto Princesa hosted the Batang Pinoy in 2002, 2019 and 2024.

“As we look ahead to Batang Pinoy 2025, we leave with excitement for what is to come. While we do not yet know where our next host will be, Puerto Princesa has set a high standard,” Tatad said.

“Known for its breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture, Palawan will forever hold a special place in our hearts.”

Out of the 138 LGUs, it was Pasig City who came out on top this year.

With a medal haul of 83 golds, 49 silvers, and 88 bronzes for a total tally of 220 medals at press time, the Pasigueños snapped Baguio City’s four-year reign in this multi-sport competition.

Bannered by the likes of swimmer Arvin Taguinota II, who took home six gold medals and one silver medal, and gymnast Haylee Garcia, who won five gold medals, Pasig City is slated to receive P5 million from the PSC for winning the overall title.

Meanwhile, Baguio City settled for second place with a 63-53-58 gold-silver-bronze medal tally and will take home P4 million.

Quezon City improved from last year’s Batang Pinoy as it finished in third place with a 45-43-45 medal tally for P3 million.

Last year’s third placer Davao City slipped to fourth place this year with a 35-35-28 medal haul for P2 million.

Completing the top five local government units is Cebu City with a 28-32-27 medal haul and will be getting P1 million.