Like a loyal soldier, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio will carry out the marching order given to him by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. during his fourth State of the Nation Address last Monday at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City.

Gregorio expressed his gratitude to the President and assured him that they are aligned in supporting all Filipino athletes from the grassroots all the way to the elite level.

Sports was given prominence in Marcos’ report to the nation.

He lauded all the stars of this golden generation like professional boxer Manny Pacquiao and tennis player Alex Eala as well as Olympic medalists like Carlos Yulo, Hidilyn Diaz Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas.

He also made special mention of outstanding para athletes like Jerrold Mangliwan, Cendy Asusano, Angel Mae Otom and Ernie Gawilan while congratulating the squad that won the gold medal in the men’s curling event of the Asian Winter Games.

“Would you believe it? Even if there’s no winter season here in the country, we still proved that we can win in the Winter Games,” the Chief Executive said.

“Let us recognize the athletes who gained honor for the country. They did not only bring joy, they also strengthened our love for the country and the pride of every Filipino.”

But his main directive to the PSC was to help the government in developing a healthy citizenry through the expansion of various grassroots sports programs.

“On the other hand, we see our countrymen 20 years old and above gaining weight. So, we have to make sure that they have an active lifestyle every day,” Marcos said.

“Let us organize a lot of games and tournaments like fun runs and fun walks, even aerobics and Zumba.”

“For the LGUs (local government units), let us make our parks and plazas comfortable so that our citizens — both old and new — can work out.”

“Starting today, the Philippine Sports Commission will open the track and field oval of Pasig, Manila and Baguio to the public so that you can jog for free. Let us give our all-out support to the games and all the athletes in the country.”

Gregorio embraced the challenge, saying that the President’s support means a lot to Filipino athletes.

In fact, he immediately ordered the opening of track ovals in government-owned facilities like Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Philsports compound and Teachers Camp.

“With the President’s support, we are certain that our athletes will go farther, climb higher, and smile wider,” said Gregorio, who has more than two decades of experience as a sports executive before being tapped to lead the government sports agency on 1 July, replacing Richard “Dickie” Bachmann.

“Rest assured that we are accepting these orders wholeheartedly and we will carry out all the directives from the President.”