GENERAL SANTOS CITY — After settling for a single gold medal last year, Manila City had finally awakened, making its presence felt in the 2025 Batang Pinoy here.

Manila Sports Council chairman Dale Evangelista told DAILY TRIBUNE that their quality coaches and access to sports facilities at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex (RMSC) had led to their impressive surge in the annual grassroots multi-sport event organized by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).

As of press time, Manila had improved in centerpiece sports athletics and swimming to collect a total of 36 gold, 31 silver and 25 bronze medals to emerge as a surprise contender to reigning champion Pasig City and powerhouse Baguio City.

Patricia Mae Santor became one of Manila’s best athletes after winning six gold medals and one silver medal in the girls’ 16-17 swimming competition.

Evangelista, the former skipper of the national water polo team, said his meeting with PSC chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio a few months ago bore fruit as they were allowed to train at the RMSC that is located in Victo Cruz and Adriatico Streets in Manila.

“Having the Rizal Memorial open to the athletes has been my first request to PSC chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio. They were able to train well and they also used the sports complexes around the city,” Evangelista said.