The Schools Division Office (SDO) of Malabon City secured fifth place overall in the elementary level of the Palarong Pambansa 2025, held in Ilocos Norte.

Among the standout athletes were Sophia Rose Garra and Cris Ivan Domingo, who emerged as overall champions in swimming and running, respectively.

Garra completed a seven-gold medal sweep in swimming events. The 12-year-old athlete dedicated her victories to her faith and family

“It’s all thanks to the Lord, because I always pray before swimming — every single day. I prayed for this, and I’m truly grateful because without Him, I wouldn’t have made it here,” said Garra, who also acknowledged her parents’ unwavering support.

Garra dominated the 200m freestyle, 100m backstroke, 200m individual medley, 100m freestyle, 50m freestyle, 4x50m medley relay, and 4x50m freestyle relay.

Malabon-based sprinter Cris Ivan Domingo won three gold medals in his Palarong Pambansa debut, triumphing in the 100-meter dash, 200 meters, and 400 meters.

“I focused on training and worked hard on improving for events like this,” said Domingo, who dreams of joining the national team.

In total, SDO-Malabon brought home ten medals across various events.

In a Facebook post, Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval congratulated the young athletes and praised their dedication.

“Saludo kami sa inyong ipinakitang sipag, tiyaga, sakripisyo at determinasyon upang maiuwi ang tagumpay. Ipinagmamalaki at patuloy kayong susuportahan ng Malabon sa bawat laban na inyong haharapin.”

The National Capital Region (NCR) retained its title as overall champion of the 2025 Palarong Pambansa, with 117 gold medals, followed by Region IV-A with 47 golds.