The Torch-Palarong Pambansa 2018-Issue No. 6

VIGAN CITY — Palaro records are shattered one by one. THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE 2018 PALARONG PAMBANSA
Seventeen smashed records characterize the 2018 Palaro as of press time Volum 1, Number 6 April 20, 2018 Ilocos Sur
as the NCR tankers continue to rule the swimming pool lanes here going into the
final stretch. NEVER DISABLED TO WIN. Zamboanga Sharks Julieta Ondog embraces a technical
NCR set a new record in the 200-meter medley relay for secondary girls official after clinching her third gold in three years in the 50m breastroke for
with a 2:03.49 mark. The NCR team also set new records in the 400-meter paralympics swimming. (Photo and caption by Claire B. Tagasa)
individual medley relay and 400-meter medley relay, both for secondary girls.
Samantha Therese Coronel, also from NCR, broke the record of Nicole Meah Fueled by her passion to win, Julieta “Mabilis naman siyang matuto pero
Pamintuan, clocking 1:06.58 in the 100-meter backstroke for secondary girls. Also Ondog of the Zamboanga Peninsula kapag ayaw niya, ayaw niya. Pinaglalaro ko
from NCR, Thanya Angelyn Dela Cruz (200-meter breaststroke for secondary girls), made a historic triumph in 18B girls 50m na lang siya sa tubig until such time na she is
Mark Jiron Rotoni (200-meter breaststroke for secondary boys), Michaela Jasmine breaststroke (single-knee category) after now determined to train hard. Kasi alam niya
Mojdeh (individual medley for elementary girls) and Philip Joaquin Santos breaking her own record, submerging kapag manalo siya ay may reward siya. Super
(individual medley for secondary boys), and Cagayan Valley’s Jalil Sephraim rivals, and clinching her 3-peat saya ko kasi pang 3 years na niya ito,”
Taguinod set new marks (50-meter breaststroke for secondary boys). championship tilt in the 2018 Palarong Ondog’s coach said.
Meanwhile, Kasandra Alcantara, still from NCR, set a new record in shot Pambansa Paralympic Games, Quirino
put for secondary girls with her 11.88-meter throw, breaking the 26-year-old mark Swimming Pool, Bantay, Ilocos Sur, April “Despite from being physically
set by Marites Barrios in 1992. Alcantara, who returned to Palaro after 2 years, did 18. challenged, deaf and mute, Ondog decided
not show any sign of slowing down as she joined the NCR tankers in hauling to pursue her sports. I discovered her sa
precious golds for the Stalwarts. Jamela De Asis of Western Visayas also joined Withstanding the pressure brought kanilang barangay habang siya ay
Alcantra in breaking Barrios’ record of 11.20 meters with her 11.29-meter throw. by her own 1:14.00 record time in last lumalangoy, doon ko siya nakitaan ng
The record in the 400-meter run in secondary girls was also shattered as year’s Palaro and proving her might as a potential,” her coach added.
Jessel Lumapas of Southern Tagalog clocked 56.28 seconds to eclipse Jenny Rose Zamboanga Shark protegee, Ondog
Rosales’ mark of 57.33 seconds in 2011. Ann Katherine Quitoy of Bacolod City clocked 1:04.46 dauntlessly sweeping her Ondog is confident to snare more golds
posted a new mark in the javelin throw with her 45.72 throw, almost 3 meters adversaries. in her next heats. (Peter V. Gadia Jr. and
better than Sylvian Faith Abunda’s mark in 2017. Joseph Dulatre)
Two athletes, Ed Deliña and Jhon Rafael Lamatan, broke the 13-year-old
record of 41.62 meters in discus throw for secondary boys by setting 42.67 and
41.68 marks respectively. Western Visayas’ Avegail Beliran set a new record in
javelin throw for elementary girls with 41.46 meters, overcoming the 40.63
meters set by Gia Bucag in 2010.
Jumpers Kent Brian Celeste of Ilocos and Ernie Calipay of NCR broke the
1.95-meter mark set by Clifford John Bonjoc in high jump for secondary boys as
Celeste leaped 1.99 meters. Calipay jumped 1.96m.Western Visayas’ Trixie Jane
Willy and Southern Tagalog’s Eliza Cuyom set new records in the 100-meter
hurdles for elementary and secondary girls respectively.
‘Willy broke Jesus Ampunan’s record of 16.4 seconds with a 16.3-

second clocking, while Cuyom posted 14.5
seconds to surpass the 22-year-old
record of 14.9 seconds set by
Michelle Patasaha.(Edward B.
Antonio)

BANTAY, ILOCOS SUR - Three golds in 3 years nagtrain sa kanila,” (It’s her 3rd time to win in the
is what reigning and defending wushu wanda Palaro and Saludares is always her opponent. She
champion Roni Marielle Santiago of Davao Region trained hard for this and it also helped when she
achieved after she retained her crown in the 52 became a member of the Kingsword Davao Club),
kg. category defeating Angelica Saludares of Santiago’s coach, Edna Rivera said.
Region VI here, April 19.
In Group B, Region VI beginner Ghea Mae
The 17-year old Grade 12 student of Ateneo Gregorios clinched gold in the 42kg.
de Davao University unleashed powerful kicks and
punches to score a lopsided decision. The 14-year-old Gregorios defeated former
gold medalist Charlene Nagor of CAR by winning in
“Tatlong beses na siyang nananalo dito sa the 2nd and third round.
Palarong Pambansa at palaging si Saludares ng
ang kanyang nakakalaban. Nanalo siya dahil sa “I am also a neophyte coach but I underwent
puspusang pag-eensayo namin at nakatulong din a lot of training so I can propel Ghea to victory
ang pag-memember ng aming mga wushu today,” said Mary Jinky Umahag, Gregorio’s coach.
athletes sa Kingsword Davao Club, isang club na (Jennifer Requilman, Marilyn Raciles and Richard
Moreno)

2

CAR tames MIMAROPA

SAN ILDEFONSO, Ilocos more aggressive offense with Janlord Batino of the CAR Fearless Highlanders makes a cross over before
Sur- Dizzying fast breaks and precise lay-ups and crisp 3- driving the ball towards victory during their match with MiMaRoPA
excellent ball distribution point shots courtesy of Tamaraws in elementary basketball, Game 16 at San Ildefonso Municipal
executed by the CAR Fearless center Jhade Talingting but Covered Court, April 17.
Highlanders’ agile swingman the Highlanders retaliated
Jeth Harvey Roble rattled the with Roble’s heart-pounding Secondary Men’s Volleyball
MIMAROPA Tamaraws, 46-43 fast-breaks coupled with no-
in basketball boys look- passes from Batino CALABARZON ousts NCR, books finals seat
elementary in the 2018 while Managbao controlled
Palarong Pambansa, held at the board to lead 43-41 The Heroes and the Manila Meanwhile, Region III caught
the San Ildefonso Municipal going into the final quarter. Stalwarts disputed the last ticket the first bus ticket to the finals after
Covered Court, April 17. to the championship round of the spiking out Region 6, 2-1 in their do-
With the score tied at 43 61st Palarong Pambansa men’s or-die semifinal showdown.
Tamaraws drilled in all in the dying 20 seconds of volleyball tournament in a winner-
points first in the run- and- the game, MIMAROPA take-all match today at the Sta. The Patriots pounced on
gun 1st quarter with their committed a defensive foul Catalina Gymnasium. Western Vizayas erratic third set
series of fast-breaking layups paving the way for the game plays to pocket the first finals
coupled with their leech-like Fearless Highlanders to Region IV-A rallied to defeat slot.
defense to outsmart the shoot for three at the 15-foot the crowd favorite NCR in a tight
Highlanders 15-8. line sealing the victory. game. The Manila-based spikers NCR will battle against Region
had the lead in the first set but III for the bronze medal tomorrow
In the second quarter, “Masaya kami sa aming committed several errors. This before the gold medal match
Fearless Highlanders’ center panalo ngayon. Ito ay dahil enables CALABARZON to diminish between these two undefeated
Red Managbao came up with sa teamwork at depensa the lead and took the opening set, teams.
back-to-back shots from namin,(We are happy for our 25-22.
point guard Janlord Batino’s victory. This is because of The tournament is divided into
assists which threatened our teamwork and While NCR suffered from four groups. Region IV-A and Region
Tamaraws lead to 4, 17-21. defense),said Batino. outside releases and services, VI top-seeded Groups A and B while
CALABARZON spikers embarked NCR and Region III led the Group C
In the third canto, the (Irene V. Balasan, Joanna Lyn the urge to finish the game in the and D.(Marvin Q. Tacal and Mark
Tamaraws set off with a Andres & Marilyn Raciles) second set, 25-18. Louis Galanga)

Blue Barons eliminate Golden

Stingers, advance to semis

The Blue Barons’ cousins Brendan Lui and Christopher Anglo after winning MAGSINGAL, Ilocos Sur- Blue Baron John Christian
gold in Badminton pose with team mates and coaches. Bedia of WVRAA unleashed speed and power under the
scorching heat of the sun here at the Pagsanaan football
Baron cousins capture gold in badminton field to help his team eliminate the Golden Stingers of
“Malaki ang naitulong ng Eastern Visayas, 8-0 during the secondary boys football
VIGAN CITY - With their teamwork namin bilang quarterfinals, April 19.
powerful smashes and excellent magpinsan para mapanatili ang
teamwork, Blue Barons’ power aming kumpiyansa sa laro,” (Out The Grade 8 rising star of Calinao National High School
cousins Brendan Lui and training and teamwork as cousins scored three straight goals to qualify them in the semifinal
Christopher Anglo captured gold helped us maintain our round.
in elementary badminton boys confidence throughout the game)
team event here, April 18 at the Brendan Lui said. “Na inspire ako sa kapatid kong varsity player kaya
expense of Jacinth Paul Ruedas pinili ko na rin ang football bilang sports ko ‘’ (I was
and Pete Kristoffer Salatan of When asked about their inspired by my varsity player sibling that’s why I chose
Zamboanga Region, 2-1. strategy in winning, coach Pearl football as my sports), Bedia said.
Mayo said that confidence,
The Anglo cousins from constant training and proper Four mighty Barons kickers also delivered impressive
Saint John’s Institute in Bacolod game tactics were their secret goals starting with Christian Talamor, 2 goals, and the trio of
City, both first-timers in the weapons. Kurt Ivan Guidoriagao, Jelani Borbon and Ryan Estmart
Palaro, took the first set, 21-12, Juayno with 1 point each.
but Ruedas and Salatan retaliated “Once we arrived here in
in the second set, 22-20 to set up Vigan last April 9, we “Sobrang saya kasi lahat ng mga training at pawis
a third and deciding game which immediately continued our rigid naming ay nagbunga,” (I’m so happy because all our
the Anglos won. training,” she said. (Flordelina F. trainings and sweat paid off) said Blue Baron Coach Cyrian
Lascota and Ferdinand Legaspi) Niel Camero.

The Blue Barons dictated the tempo throughout the
game. They will be facing powerhouse NCR, the defending
champion, next. (Dharen- Jake R. Garcia & Earl Genesis A.
Darog)

3

Metro Manila Stalwarts overpowers

Central Luzon Patriots, 94-76

Palarong Pambansa 2018 Goalball Champ Clash of Titans! shots by Gabriel Baluyot and James
Metro Manila Stalwarts once Dela Pena of Central Luzon Patriots on
NCR Stalwarts snags Gold again proved their unwavering defense the third quarter. But, due to the
“Every year pinaghahandaan four straight points during the second half against the struggling Central Luzon intensity of the game there were
namin ang Palaro, so we are preparing locking to seven all. The spirit boosted Patriots through mighty fast breaks by physical violations committed by some
for the whole year.” when the game favored to Stalwarts as Terrence Fortea and extreme steal and of the members of both team. Vince
theykeptblocking everyboutoftheBlue lay-up by Miguel Oczon in their Patrick Icban and Charles Delfino of
Said NCR Stalwarts coach Laarni Baron. The fast and furious Stalwart electrifying clash during the Game 12 of Central Luzon Patriots got warned but
Lebuna as the team proved supremacy captainLemuelGarciaamplifiedtheteam Basketball Secondary Boys Tournament Carl Tamayo of Metro Manila Stalwarts
in the goalball court seizing gold against Dan Jorens Luzanes and Shayra Erum at jam-packed San Juan Covered Court, was disqualified due to committing two
the ravaging R6 Blue Barons, 14-8 in the during the last two minutes by wrathfully San Juan, Ilocos Sur, April 17. unsportsmanlike foul.
Goalball Championship Game held at the rolling the ball to the opponents’ goal. Ron Jabez Canlas of Central
IlocosSurBadmintonCourt, Bantay,April Finally,thematchsealedto14-8declaring Luzon Patriots promptly fired back-to- Wrath of both team were felt in
19. NCR Stalwarts as this year’s champions. back three points crashing the every corner of the covered court and
indestructible defense of NCR Stalwarts this time, Stalwarts didn’t gave any
Placing second spot last year, “Nagiinvite kami ng mga ibang in the first three minutes of the game chance for the Patriots as Terrence
the NCR Stalwarts underwent intensive manlalaro na makakalaban ng mga bata setting an early lead for Central Luzon Fortea and Garry Abadiano
trainings stealing the crown from last kasi ‘yon ang kailangan nila, constant Patriots,19-27. continuously bank three-point shots
year’s victor CALABARZON which practice. Hinahasa din namin ang On the second quarter, Stalwarts putting the Central Luzon Patriots in
happened to be this year’s bronze pandinig nila kasi ‘yon ang importante, of NCR was on fire yearning to get even misery and ending the 3rd quarter in
medalist. yungskillsnila.Kinakailangandin naming over the ranging offense of Central favor of Metro Manila Stalwarts,32-18.
turuan kung paano ‘yong tamang placing Luzon Patriots and started to bank
Blue Baron dominated the para maipasok nila ang bola”, added mighty fast breaks by Terrence Fortea Central Luzon Patriots still tried to
first half with the striking attacks of the coach Lebuna. coupled with three-point shots by recover but Metro Manila Stalwarts are
team captain Wilnard Dominguez as he Miguel Oczon and brawny rebound by more determined to get the supremacy.
heatedly threw the ball to goal which On the other hand, R4-A Neil Guarino changing the lead for the Fortea finishes the 4th quarter through
difficulted NCR Stalwarts in blocking. Blue CALABARZON spotted third place when second quarter in the favor of Metro his inevitable three-point shots, 19-12.
Baron nailed the first half, 6-3. they outscored 10 points against R12- Manila Stalwarts,24-19.
SOX, 14-4. (Philip John Aldos, Mark Manzano) The game got more intense after “Whatever happens in the game
But the strong Stalwarts witnessing the furious three-point is part of their learnings. It would
vanquished the court when they scored definitely benefit them for the next
game”,said Richard Goldwin
Monteverde, coach of Metro Manila
Stalwarts. (Kristy Ann Guerrero)

Region 1 seizes bronze in boxing

Hasim clinches gold Aldrin Barbosa of High School, Urdaneta City,
Region 1 bids goodbye to his Pangasinan. Inspite of the
Special Para Games athlete Ryan Jay Hasim of the MIMAROPA Tamaraws proved chance of grabbing gold in rigid training from his coach,
that no physical barriers can impede him from bagging the gold in Bocce Boys individual Palaro as he loses to Mark Mr. Jovencio Coralles Jr., he
event at the Sto. Domingo grounds, Sto. Domingo Ilocos Sur, April 16. Lester Durens of Region 10 failed to give away counter
during the semi-finals bout, punches due to muscle spasm
Hasim, a special pupil and athlete from Puerto Princesa Elementary School of Region IV- light flyweight (44-49 kg) at the right back shoulder,
B edged foes from R1AA which snatched the silver and WVRAA which settled for the division of the Palarong lead to his defeat and made
bronze. Pambansa 2018 at Plaza Durens the better man in the
Burgos, Vigan City, tonight. bout.
Displaying intense focus and precision, Hasim scored six points in the fourth set to finish
on top thrashing the hopes of his rivals in bagging the much-coveted gold medal. The unstoppable “Even I lost today, I
blows and heavy punches of will still pursue boxing and aim
“His myriads of tactics and techniques in throwing the ball near the pallino (based ball) Durens resulted to a 26 for gold next year’s Palarong
earned him the top spot,” Hasim’s coach said. seconds referee stop. Pambansa,” said Barbosa.
(Ferdinand Legaspi, Flordelina
It can be recalled that Ryan Jay copped bronze medal in the same event in Antique last Barbosa, 17, is Lascota)
year and his coach is hopeful for a repeat in next year’s Palaro. (Shirly A. Daño) Grade 11 of Badipa National

4

Palaro first-timer reigns in

women’s artistic gymnastics
STA. MARIA, Ilocos Sur— “As a coach, we set their
Joining Palarong Pambansa for the emotions since some of the
first-time, Gail Santos of Region III apparatuses appear to be
bagged 4 golds and 1 silver in the dangerous to the young athletes. It
different apparatuses of Women’s can be scary to them but we make
Artistic Gymnastics (WAG) on April sure that we talk to them well and
19 at Sta. Maria Sports Complex. we boost their motivation so that
they do not just compete but also
The 8-year-old gymnasts from love and enjoy what they are
Marilao, Bulacan awed spectators doing,” Robenta added.
with remarkable cartwheels,
swings, and cat leaps making her Allysa Chavez of Region VI
clinched goldin individual all- ranked second with a total of 79.75
around (80.6), floor exercise in Individual All-Around. She got Coach-gymnast tandem. Breanna Labadan ran immediately to
(19.400), single bar (19), and vault silver in floor exercise (18.950) and hug her coach Dora Vass after her last performance in the
(18.6) while she earned silver in vault (18.55) and a bronze in ingle Palaro on Thursday, April 19 at Sta. Maria Sports Complex.
balance beam (18.6). bar (18.8).
“Medyo kinabahan po ako sa Elaiza Andreil Yulo of NCR nabs all gold in elem
balance beam (I was a bit nervous NCRAA ranked 3rd in the rhythmic gymnastics
in the balance beam.),” said the Individual All-Around with a score
Grade 2 pupil of Patubig of 78.6. She got silver in single STA. MARIA, Ilocos Sur— As the National Capital Region
Elementary School. bar (19) and bronze in balance (NCR) continues to dominate Palarong Pambansa, Stalwarts’
beam (18.6) and vault (18.5). celebrated gymnast Breanna Labadan further intensified
Coach Gregoria Robenta their dominance by sweeping three more events in
commented that they are happy WAG Cluster 1 is for Apparatus Finals of Elementary Rhythmic Gymnastics at Sta.
since it is Santos’ first time to join gymnasts aging from 7 to 9 who Maria Sports Complex, April 19.
the Palarong Pambansa and it is the competes in single bar, vault,
first time also for their school to floor exercise and balance beam.(
have a representative in the said Kizzel Mina and Avelyn Joyce
event. Flores)

Being one of the most applauded gymnasts in the
competition, Labadan wowed the audience with her precise
and flexible movements with rope, ball, and clubs where she
got the highest score of 11.0667, 13.3167, and 12.1167
respectively.

Sweeping golds, setting new records. Phoebe “My mom and dad let me join the clubs when I was 7
Nicole Amistoso of Region 7’s archer sets new and that’s where I learned gymnastics. I was amazed by how
record in 30m, 40m and 50m against defending they (athletes) split. For me, it was unbelievable,” said the
gold medallists of last year’s Palaro Bajado 11-year-old gymnast originally from Butuan City.
and Villamor during the qualifying games held
San Ildefonso Archery Range, April 19. Labadan’s Hungarian coach Dora Vass shared, “I really
like to work with Breanna because she is hardworking and I
King Fishers, Fighter archers sweep golds really see that she is improving. In the last three months, she
improved a lot.”
Arrows projected in altered directions.
New records have been set in the qualifying rounds of Meanwhile, Labadan’s teammate Denise Sabunod added
men’s and women’s division as Phoebe Nicole Amistoso of gold in the freehand competition with a score of 14.4833.
Region VII reaped top spots in 30m, 40m and 50m against She also bagged silver in rope with 9.8167, and ball with
defending Villamor and Bajado of last year ’s Palaro. 13.1333. Charmy Deseree Flores, also from NCR, added a
However, Charmaine Angela Villamor of CAR was able to bronze medal to her team with a score of 14.1333 in the
defend her crown in 60m where she got gold and Bronze in freehand competition.
50m, while Ma. Ferimi Gleam Bajado clutched Silver in 50m.
Meanwhile, Region 1 archer Jared Cole B. Sua killed 2 Labadan recently ranked 3rd in the XVI Gracia Cup in
golds in long distance 60m and 70m with 320 and 313 points Budapest, Hungary. She also brought home three golds and
respectively. bronze and was announced as champion in the Individual
It was a tough fight between the Silver medalists Bryan All-Around of the Hongkong Queens Cup 2017. (Kizzel
Amir Eugenio and Stevenson of Region III who are just 2 Mina)
points shy in 60m, while Jonathan Reaport still managed to
grab the bronze medal in 60m and Silver in 70m. Pangilinan & Eugenio (RIII); Individual Match (Boys)-
Below is the result in the Day 3 of the competition for Buladaco (RX) vs Reaport (NCR); Individual Match (Girls)-
the final round: Mixed Team-Villamor & Hidalgo (CAR) vs Bajado (RVII) vs Villamor (CAR) (Augie Boy L. Lorenzana,
Karrina June A. Panelo, Irene A. Javillonar, Dharen Jake
Garcia)

5

Blue Barons seize gold in Arnis Anyo tilt

SAN VICENTE, Ilocos Sur – Mateo and Mariyah Keziah Mae
Fueled with rigid training, discipline, Sumiran.
persistence and teamwork, Western
Visayas Blue Barons garnered 3 “Disiplina talaga ang kailangan.
golds in the arnis anyo individual Hanggang gabi ang training niya.
and team events in the 2018 Malaki ang pasasalamat namin kina
Palarong Pambansa, April 16-17. Glory Joy Bartonico at Commissioner
Jessie Mae Beso from Manuel Bonnie Celedro sa tulong nila sa amin
F. Orato National High School in Capiz sa training,” shared coach Jose
wowed the crowd with her skills in Marcelo Bartonico.
fighting double identical weapons in
the Arnis Anyo secondary girls Meanwhile, Caryle Wayne
CONCEPCION IN ACTION. Abelard Concepcion of Region competition snaring the top honor Reyes, Jeremy Joseph R. Tañedo and
VII shows his winning form in boys Poomsae. with 29.10 points. Kyle Angelo Tiron’s synchronization
and execution landed them to the
Region VII kicks gold in sec. boys poomsae “Tiyaga-tiyaga lang po pag highest spot in both Anyo Team
hindi nananalo. Dapat gawin lang po Single and Double Identical Weapon
STO. DOMINGO, projecting a new record from lagi ang best, makakarating din po ng elementary boys (29.30/48.80/29.10).
Ilocos Sur-Nearly been 8.0 to his winning score Palaro,”(Let patience be our
slashed in the semi final 8.135. motivation to win. By doing our best, The members of the team
ranking fourth, Johann James Ordanza of we shall reach the Palaro) beamed from Cabatuan Central Elementary
Abelard Concepcion of the Region I Golden King Jessie Mae. School in Iloilo also excel in
Region VII Fighters rose on Fishers nabbed silver as he Beso, 18, a newbie in the academics as they were awarded
the ladder and scored gold in kicked off 8.100 points. Palaro, also copped silver in Anyo With Honors during their Recognition
taekwondo men poomsae Ranked 1 in the semi final, Individual Espada y Daga (28.80/ Day.
Group B after showing a Joshua Cachero of Region 6 48.00/29.10) and bronze in Anyo
fantastic performance at Sto. Barons snatched bronze Team Double Weapon (29.10/48.60/ “Ginabayan po kami ni coach
Domingo Municipal Gym, because of his 8.03 score. 29.20) with teammates Laica Mae Gay Manalo at ng trainer namin na si
April 18. “There is a need to Ryan Robles para makamit namin
ang panalo,” said the team. (Arlyn
Bautista and Arlene Ragunjan)

A newbie in Palarong act your dream for you to
Pambansa, Concepcion, 16, succeed.” Concepcion said in
from Cebu City, marked an interview. (Richard S.
history as he managed Moreno)

Golden King Fishers repulse The Heroes

Playing with unstoppable tried to exhaust all means to SOX ARNIS TEAM. Arnis athletes from Region 12 warm up prior to
assaults and stunning stunts, trounce their nemesis but the their combat in the Palaro 2018, Ilocos Sur.
the Golden King Fishers furious Golden King Fishers
unleashed tremendous 2-point established mind-shattering 8-ball champs conquer top spots in 9-ball
shots flamed up by their shots that totally made them
shooting guard Mannuel soar higher leaving their rivals Once may just be an accident but ko ay napakahusay (I really prepared for this
Andrey Ober whipping a 4-point gap. twice is a real victory. match but all of my opponents were really
Calabarzon Heroes, 19-16 Once again, Region 6 West Visayas good),” stressed Supeña.
during the pulsating 3x3 “Nung umpisa po ay cue masters proved their dominance as they Magluyan, on the other hand,
basketball elimination round kinabahan pero nung bagged two more golds in the Billiards arena established an early 4-0 lead that drove
at the Quirino Stadium, nagpawis na po ay parang of Lyric Hall, April 19. Estefan to force for a do-or-die. However,
Bantay, Ilocos Sur, April 19. nakuha na po namin yong Abad Supeña Jr. remained Magluyan’s combination shot pocketed the
game shift ng laro kaya nawala undisputed as he defended his 2017 title elusive 9-Ball in the thirteenth rack.
Powered by their strong na po yung kaba at tsaka against Jonathan Yu of CARAGA, 7-5, in the “Sobrang nahirapan po ako sa finals
determination to snare gold in nagfocus na rin kami sa laro,” men’s 9-Ball tournament while Hannah Erika at hindi ko inakalang makaka-gold po ulit ako
finals, The Heroes first shooting guard Untalan Magluyan slid past Tracy Mae Estefanio who (I was really hard up in the final match and
displayed prowess in court stressed. is also from CARAGA, 7-6 in the women’s 9- did not expect to win another gold),”
after owning the first score in Ball final match. said Magluyan.
the heated battle. “Teamwork po at tsaka After a toe-to-toe face-off against Yu Prior to their 9-Ball doubles
we are aiming for the gold which led to a tie at 5-all in the tenth rack, victory, Supeña and Magluyan were
Golden King Fishers para sa Region 1 . We’re very Supeña secured clean strokes and romped also the gold medalists in the 8-Ball
managed to build strong happy kasi natalo namin yung away with a 2-0 run in the last racks. competitions men and women
defense and flaunted alam namin na isa sa mga “Pinaghandaan ko po talaga ang divisions, respectively. (Paul Francis
astonishing foot works giving mahigpit naming kalaban, ang laban na itongunit lahat ng mga nakalaban Banatin & Frances Jocelle Singson)
their basket consecutive Calabarzon,” Golden King
shots. Fishers coach said.

In the first half of the Region 1 is expecting to
game, Mark Glenn Camata continue dominating in the
and Ryan Untalan hacked in 2- next games after subjugating
point shots. one of their tough
competitors.(Jocelyn D.
Notwithstanding the Sabrido and Mary Joy P.
pressure brought by the Ligayo)
cheering crowd, CALABARZON

They all started in Palaro 6
Before they became our country’s top sports icons, regional delegations. These awards are Most Organized
they were part of the thousands of student-athletes Delegation, Most Disciplined Delegation, Best Billeting School THE PALARO TORCH
competing in the annual Palarong Pambansa, hoping to raise and Cleanest, Greenest and Eco-Friendliest Delegation. Editorial Board
their hands as champions and aspiring to start a career in Hence, some regional contingents have even sent their
professional sports. The popular volleyball player from advanced parties a month before the Palaro. They wanted to Editor-in-Chief
Batangas Allysa Valdez started playing for Region IV-A when make sure that their respective assigned schools are well Lydia T. Liclican
she was in elementary. Then she played for National Capital prepared and very much ready upon the arrival of their
Region when she was recruited by University of Santo Tomas. official delegations. Associate Editor
Elma Muros- Posadas, the former long jump queen Fast forward to Palaro proper, if you visit the different Maria Concepcion A. Iglesias
and fastest woman in South East Asia and Lydia de Vega, the billeting areas, you will be amazed of the sea of colorful
fastest woman in Asia were notable talents produced by bantings, flags, and decorations. It was a total Feature Editors
transformation. Aside from the landscapes, buildings are Maria Novena A. Sarmiento, Frances
Palaro in athletics. In tennis, we have Dyan Castillejo. Jocelle Singson, Jenny Rose Arenas-
Meanwhile in Philippine Basketball Association players, the renovated and structured, and areas are improved. Of
list includes Danny Ildefonso, Marlou Aquino, Willie Miller, course, this is due to the collaborative efforts between the Gestole
Samboy Lim and Kirby Raymundo. assigned region and the host school’s different stakeholders. News Editors
Indeed, Palaro brings out the best of our creativity, Mark Manzano, Saniata M. Piano,
Truly, Palarong Pambansa is the breeding ground of Edlyn Arranz, Susana Vicerra, Irene
the best athletes for it develops discipline, perseverance and resourcefulness, solidarity and comradeship. For without
determination. Who knows, this year’s Palaro might produce these, Palaro won’t reached 61 years. Javillonar
our country’s future Olympic gold medalists. Two days from now, Palaro ends. For me, there are Sports Editors
greater things aside from the new records and new talents Edward Antonio, Daniel Cuenca Jr.,
*************** *************** discovered. These are the seeds of friendship earned planted Marvin Tacal, Aniceto Pagaling Jr.,
Since 2012, Department of Education has started Thomas Sumbad, Pablo Tabin, Jr.
promoting clean, green and eco-friendly Palaro as well as in our hearts and the wonderful anecdotes that once upon a Field Writers
positive values by giving awards and incentives to deserving time a Palaro happened in Ilocos. Marvin Inay, Rose Joy Lagmay, Imelda
Peña, Pauline Arucan, Jocelyn Sabrido,
#UNSUNG HEROES Karrina June Panelo, Augie Boy
Lorenzana, Arlyn Bautista, April Bobiles,
So much have been said about the #BestPalaroEver and opening program was seen live by the Filipinos nationwide and Kizzel Mina, Jean Ishrael Dulay, Antonio
#IlocanoHospitality in social media but what about the abroad. We are updated on the latest medal standing of each Regunton, Jhoana Lyn Andres, Irene
miniscule people giving their own contribution for the success region. We hear sports stories and meet sports heroes being Balasan, Ria Samelin, Mary Joy Ligayo,
of the Palarong Pambansa 2018? What about the born day by day. All these are made possible by the passionate Richard Moreno, Mary Joy Lardizabal
#UnsungHeroes of the ‘Palaro’? mediamen who work 24/7 in their respective media rooms – Julius Antonio, Sharon Castillo, Paul
sans sleep, sans comfortable sleeping rooms, sometimes, sans Francis Banatin, Marjorie Quijano, Mary
What about the #ProtocolOfficers who give free bathing (sad truth) but full of enthusiasm and pride to etch the Joy Aubrey Utrera, Liezl Heraña, Leah
transportation and tour-guiding services or even food treats to history of the ‘Palaro’. Montilla, Arlene Ragunjan,Gerlie dela
their guests? Part of their role is to drive their guests to their Rosa, Jennifer Requilman, Joseph
hotels and other destinations they wish to visit which are What about the #FoodServices who make sure all the Dulatre, Flordelina Lascota, Jasmin M.
generally work-related. Good thing they have ‘gas slips’ regional officials, athletes, coaches, technical officials and Abella, Jennie Savellano, Joselito Leal,
provided by the PGIS. They also have to patiently wait for thei working committees take their meals three times a day in order Ferdinand Legaspi, Lorna Halabaso, Fahd
appointment of their guests to be finished before they could go for them to perform their roles with full of vigor and strength? Agbulos, Grace Garcia, Jennifer
home. Good thing they have supportive families. Sometimes, Savellano, Michelle Vilog, Neil Kim
their guests may want to have a taste of the Ilocano cuisine What about the #Medics who keep an eye to the Collado, Kristy Ann Guerero, Jeric Aren
and part of their role is to give them a simple treat. Good thing, wounded, fractured , fainted or sick athletes just to make them Dedicatoria, Shirley Daño, Elvie Ribuyaco,
they have extra money for these perks. All of these lead to one feel better so they could still go on with their competitions? Aileen Anselmo, Allen Abo, Delfin Irorita,
reason - for the love of Ilocos Surians to the ‘Palaro’ delegates. Avelyn Joyce Flores,Lorena Cabanit, Erika
What about the #Policemen who make sure there is Karen Eleccion, Karen De Leon
What about the #Usherettes who welcome the VIPs , peace and order in every billeting and playing venues? What Photojournalists
lead their way and never leave their side until they are about the #Hotels who give excellent accommodation to the Manuel Zacarias, Claire Tagasa, Charles
comfortably seated? Their dress code requires them to wear VIPs, parents of the athletes and other guests in the ‘Palaro’? Bernal, Paul Benedict Yacap, Juan Carlos
white long sleeves top, black trousers and HMU regardless of What about the #Drivers who responds promptly to the call of Iglesias, Winette Sanidad, Aubrey
the temperature of the venue where their services are needed. the delegates, politely ask them where they are headed and Somera, Dharen-Jake Garcia, Allen
But they never complained. They flash their unlimited smile for bring them to their destination safe? (minus the issue on Bolesa, Kenneth Raguindin, Darwin
the love of Ilocos Surians to the ‘Palaro’delegates. overpricing) Mendoza, Arnel Bacnis, Nathaniel
Santella, Peter Gadia, Jr., Reymund
What about the #Media from both print and broadcast, And to all the working committees in the ‘Palaro’ who Jimenez, Marilyn Raciles
local and national, who are doing an excellent job in delivering gave their share of sacrifices, hard work and big heart for the Layout Artists
various news re: Palaro? The spectacular and powerhouse success of the Palarong Pambansa 2018 , are they not worth Mark Lovis Galanga, Rhoda Mae
trending? Aguimbag, Myrone Troy Dulatre, Joemar
Regua, Ade John Gestole, Abihail
Agcaoili, Annaliza Gray
Circulation Managers/Encoders
Giovani Ulanimo, Melinda Revibes,
Maribeth Bista, Rodelyn Lazo,
Lovella Cubangbang
Ruth Miranda, Marilou Rialubin,
Medal Tallyists
Leilani Navarro and Lamberto Rosario
Asst. Adviser
Mr. Marlon G. Taloza

Adviser
Dr. Maria Salome R. Abero

Consultants
Dr. Arnel C. Doctolero
Ms. Gemma Q. Tacuycuy, CESO V
Dr. Alma Ruby C. Torio, CESO III

Hospitality is one of the most quarters here at the University of accommodating, friendly and they
treasured qualities of any tribe or race. Northern Philippines are clean and the always have smiles on their faces.
It has always been sought after by water source is abundant.
travellers as they go to a new place In general, this year’s Palaro
surrounded by strangers. This makes The organizers in this university is successfully conducted though we still
the visitors feel comfortable and are so accommodating. They always have remaining two more days.
increase their urge to explore or stay ask what we need and provide them
longer in a place. immediately. Actually, we don’t need to MR. ALEX F. FLORO
tell them, because everything is Division Sports Officer
This is exactly what was provided to us. I have attended Palarong
impressed in the hearts of the Team Pambansa for years and this one is
SOX. From the corn-rich valleys and I would like to add the impressive quite different. Athletes were assigned
extensive coastlines of Central- Quirino Grandstand as primary venue of comfortable place to watch during the
Mindanao, they traversed to reach the sports events and I salute the 24-hour opening program. The get to experience
land of heritage-laden province of security. stepping on a very wide synthetic grass.
Ilocos Sur. The parade of the sports celebrities is
Most of all, people are warm and something new to us also. Imagine,
As we usual say, “There is hospitable. Hostel attendants are there is also a band. It’s also amazing
more than meet the eyes.” One cannot courteous and attentive. We are so that we can walk safely at night after
judge a place unless he has explored happy that 2018 Palarong Pambansa games. And I commend the cleanliness
the corners of the place and experience was held here in Ilocos Sur. The best is number one and sports events were
the ambiance of daily life. One must Palaro ever! Thank you very much! properly coordinated. “Walang
immerse himself and live there for nasayang na sandali kasi sobrang
couple of days, enough to say DR. EVELYN R. FETALVERO, CESO V organized ng games at sports venues.”
something about its people, culture Assistant Regional Director For the first timers in Palaro, this
and way of living. is one great experience, for us who have
For this year’s Palaro, been to Palaro yearly, this is an extra-
In a random interview with some billeting quarters in general are ordinary experience. We are grateful to
of the honchos or leaders of Region XII, accessible and safe at the same time. DepEd Region 1 and Provincial
let us find out how they viewed the There’s sufficient supply of water even Government of Ilocos Sur.
Heritage Province of Ilocos Sur as host on the third floor of this building. Rooms MR. REYMAN RUSTY S. JAYME
for this year’s Palarong Pambansa with are well ventilated and spacious. Regional Sports Secretariat
in terms of accommodation, food,
security, events venue, billeting quarters There’s a coordination
and people. among the teachers and staff of this
University. They are always available
Ilocano dish is so distinct and I when we need help or information. As
love them because they are palatable, we visit places here in Vigan City and
tasty and salivating. The billeting even the nearby towns where other
sports events where held, people are

by:
Lydia T. Liclican
Maria Novena A. Sarmiento

One player winds up the ball eyes. He was diagnosed to have lines allow players to acquaint
to throw as his two teammates retinitis pigmentosa when he themselves to make sure they’re in
flank him on either side, braced in started studying which made it position and facing the correct way.
their stand by positions. As the difficult for him to cope up with his
classmates. “When I play goalball, it is
2.75-pound goalball, blasts always a confident boost for me, “
from that player’s hands, He later on enrolled in said Lemuel. “It makes me trust
the bells rigged inside the Philippine National School for the myself more”.
ball ring out into the Blinds and recently graduated
silence. The three players under the General Academic Lemuel began building his
on the opposite end of Strand. He wants to become a devotion to the sport. He
the court dive with their teacher major in P.E., a field very undergone trainings and started
arms and legs extended close to his heart. joining competitions. He bagged
to try to stop the rolling medals when he participated in
ball from passing their Lemuel, who has a blurring of Palarong Pambansa 2015 in Davao.
goal line. One opposing vision in the left eye and having He did not let his low vision stop
player, after stopping the trouble seeing at night, have to rely him from showing the world what
ball, then stands and rolls on his sense of hearing and spatial he can do.
it back in an attempt to knowledge. His everyday activities
score. can sometimes be a He recently played for the
This goes on and on battleimperatively. But instead of Philippine National Goalball team
until the time runs out and giving up, he found refuge in playing and placed 5th during the Asian
the team with the most goalball, a sport designed for the Para Games hed at Bukit Jalil
goals triumph. However visually-impaired. National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur,
there’s one catch, the Malaysia this year.
players can’t see a thing. Goalball is a Paralympic sport
Believe in yourself. for blind athletes. The visually- Now, he amazed everyone
A principle that impaired players use blacked-out again by leading the NCRAA in
always guide young eyeshades (imperatively taped-over capturing the gold medal in the
goalball athlete suffering ski-goggles) that allows partially- Goal Ball competition during the
from a visual impairment sighted players and totally-blind Palarong Pambansa 2018 at Ilocos
who dreams of becoming players to play equally. Sur.

a teachers someday. Players move in the court on Truly, Lemuel is amazing in his
Lemuel Garcia, youngest their hands and knees by feeling own special way. His vision may be
the taped-over twines that signals blurry, but his way to success is
among seven siblings was born the boundariesand positions for clearly visible and his star is
with the ability to see with both each of the players. Six marks in the luminously shining

by: Aniceto Pagaling Jr. & Frances Jocelle Singson
Gushing
intensity. tycoon who still got bigger three golds in Sparring,
Limitless dreams. At age 6, her Individual Poomsae, and Group
power. Detrimental moves. The fascination in Taekwondo kicks Poomsae makes here even kick
rain has it all. And so does off from wearing no belt to harder for her colossal goals.
Rain. passing belt tests. She had her She also snared awards in
Born with an innate first conquest in her third grade Sparring on events like Regional
supremacy in battling life’s using controlling and powerful and National Milo Olympics,
encounters, this fearless kicks to score against 2017 Batang Pinoy, and the
highlander is someone to look opponents. recent Cordillera Administrative
up to. Someone who takes part Region Athletic Association
in many belligerent matches With surging strength (CARAA) Meet.
inside and outside the sports coupled with genuine heart to
arena. Someone who thinks commit in her passion, she was For her, winning is not
through that chances can be able to go home as victor at all that matters; hence,
turned into exultant feat with most times. Rain uses her dedicating it all to her amorous
her ample fortitude. collective aspirations and family who always backs her up
Rain Bucao Ramon concerted efforts as a young when things seem not to fall
started from being a little no athlete to reign in the combat into places. With her promising
one who used to have big arena. athletic personality crafted a
dreams to being a young sports bright and a positively radiating
During the 2017 future. She keeps intensifying
Palarong Pambansa, reaping and getting more powerful both
in life and in the sports arena.

“Like a normal “When life throws SPED. To his teachers , he is
millennial, this you lemons, make an obedient and disciplined
a lemonade.” That is what learner, willing to beat odds
extraordinary this boy from Puerto and emerge triumphant in
young man loves to Princesa (MIMAROPA facing challenges.
REGION) did. He humbly
watch television accepted everything has to Like a normal millennial,
especially Coco offer. The good, the not-so- this extraordinary young
Martin in “Ang good and the worst, and man loves to watch
just tried to make the most television especially Coco
Probinsiyano” and out of it. Martin in “Ang Probinsiyano“
Vice Ganda, he and Vice Ganda, he wishes
Though mentally to fight the bad men and be
wishes to fight the challenged, he went on to a man in uniform.
bad men and be a defy the odds. He and his
man in uniform.” brother were adopted at an Last year, he was a
early age. He had to struggle bronze medalist in Palarong
living in new environment Pambansa. Clinching the
and new family. Unfazed, he gold this year in Bocce is a
enrolled at Puerto Princesa dream come true for Ryan
Elementary School and is Jay Hasim-an amazing
now in the transition level at reward for an equally
amazing athlete.

by: Shirly Daňo

She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at the age of four. She fought
against the Big C with bouts of radiation and chemotherapy. She went
bald. Her mother almost gave up the idea of her daughter becoming
a gymnast. Then a miracle happened. She was cured.
Daniela Reggie Dela Pisa, a cancer survivor, is now conquering the world of
gymnastics. The 14-year-old charmer from Cebu is the most promising gymnast
of Region 7. She grabbed this year’s gold medal in Secondary Rhythmic
Gymnastics Individual All Around which was held at Sta. Maria Municipal Gym,
Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur.
The finesse athlete, who landed third in the 2017 Palarong Pambansa at
Antique, topped this year’s competition in the following apparatuses: rope
(12.217), hoop (14.617), and ball (14.883). Her total score of 50.567 is only a point
away from last year’s all-around individual winner Divina Sembrano of the
National Capital Region (NCR) who got 50.467.
Daniela’s mother and at the same time her coach, Darlene Dela Pisa,
relayed that her daughter cried after her failures in catching the clubs in her recent
performance. “She was very frustrated since it was her favorite apparatus,” she
shared.

The gold medal which Daniela won this year adds to the growing
achievements she gained since she started becoming a gymnast when she was in
Grade 2. She made an international debut in the 13th Singapore Open where she
brought home four bronzes in the overall individual rhythmic gymnastics. Daniela
is also one of the Most Outstanding athletes of Milo Olympics and had been joining
Palarong Pambansa for five years.

Dadai, which Daniela’s friends and relatives call her, comes from a family
of gymnasts. Aside from her mother, her grandmother is a gymnast as well as her
mother’s six siblings. Her brother is also an athlete in the 2018 Palarong Pambansa
Men’s Artistics Gymnastics (MAG).

The incoming Grade 9 student of University of theVisayas wants to follow
the success of her favorite Russian individual rhythmic gymnast and Olympic
champion Margarita Mamun. As a preparation to competitions, Daniela makes
sure that she do her trainings after school from 5 pm to 9 pm during weekdays
and even Saturdays. Due to her cancer, she was advised by
her doctor to avoid drinking soda (softdrinks). She is not also
allowed to eat junkfood, barbeque, or any food with a lot of
fish sauce and vinegar. Her doctor; however, encouraged her
to keep in joining gymnastics since it is good for her condition.

A champion both in gymnastics and in life, Dadai,
proves that nothing can beat the persistence of a person who
wants to win. Daniela’s story of winning heightens the hope
of everyone who goes through the worst yet still stand and
survive. And in her case, it was not just surviving, it was living
the most out of it. She had defeated cancer, and it is the world
of gymnastics waiting for her to conquer.

by : Kizzel Mina and Avelyn Joyce Flores

You may not know What is your training
Marcel Ivan Ouano yet, or schedule? Do you practice
rate this young football every day?
phenom is scoring. Marcel From Monday to Saturday po.
Ivan, nicknamed Ivan,
recently awarded as MVP What do you do on your off
during the NCR Meet, is a time?
Grade 12 student at the Mostly sleeping, attend mass at kung
same time scholar at may konting budget, gala po.
National University. He
marks an amazing average Who is the sport icon that
of 4 to 5 goals in Provincial has influenced you the
or Commercial Games. He most?
has even played in
Myanmar, Cambodia, Cristiano Ronaldo po.
Japan, and Laos since
2013, under the National Do you have a favorite
Team U13, U14, U16, and professional football team?
U19.
Real Madrid po.

How long have you Do you practice a certain
been playing this sport? diet while you are in training or
during games?
Since Grade 6 po.
Foods that are rich in carbohydrates
and proteins po.

Did you always play the *How do you deal with being
striker position? If not, what other so far from home while
positions have you played? travelling for football? Do you
bring mementos that remind
Hindi po. Mula Grade 6 hanggang 3rd you of your family to prevent
year nasa defense position ako then 4th getting homesick?
year up to now, midfield striker.
Wala po, mostly tawag.

* How do you balance Do you have any advice for
studying and playing those who wish to play
football for your team football?
at the same time?
Hardwork and self-discipline po.
Sipag lang po.