The Torch-Palarong Pambansa 2018-Issue No. 5

THE OFFICIAL VDoAlIuLmYeN1,ENWuSmLEbTeTr E5RApOrFilT19H,E20210818IlPoAcoLsASRuOrNG PAMBANSA

VIGAN CITY – With prayer as their best weapon, the round, Narit rallied and took the lead 14-6 before CAOAYAN, Ilocos Sur-Davao
CARAGA Knights dominated the Cadets Category as pinning Khilua Doptante of NCR. Eagles of Region 11 haul 9 gold, 9 silver
they bagged three golds, one silver, and one bronze at and 2 bronze medals in the different
the Titong Singson covered court here, April 17. “Ang inspirasyon ko ay ang aking pamilya, ang mga
sumusuporta sa amin, at si coach,” (My inspirations are my dance categories during 2018
Notwithstanding the excruciating pain and feisty family, those who support us and my coach),” Narit said. Palarong Pambansa Dance
opponents, Sherilyn Tagra – a newbie, won via Meanwhile Tejero defied all odds as he pinned Melo Sport Finals held at NSCC Plaza,
superiority 14-1 and grabbed the first gold for their Gapasin of Region 1 in the first 20 seconds of the first round. April 17.
region against Claudil Cabugsan of Region 10 in the The Eagles showcased their
52-kg weight. Glann L. Tecson, their coach, said that they really trained
holistically for the gold for this year’s Palaro. dancing prowess in waltz, chacha,
“Hindi lang po para sa sarili ko ang medalyang ito, rumba, tango, jive, samba and
pero para rin po sa pamilya ko at sa CARAGA Region,” “Pumunta kami talaga dito sa Ilocos Sur para sa gold quickstep and bested participants
(This medal is not just only for myself but also for my medal, sa training siguro, continuous training,” (We came from the 16 regions in the Juvenile
family and for the whole CARAGA region), Tagra said. here in Ilocos Sur for the gold medal and trained and Junior Category to complete the much-coveted
continuously.), Tecson said in an interview. grandslam.
In the Cadet-Male Division, Mhel Narit and Julius The invincible tandem of John Ray Mateo and
Tejero IV both pinned their opponents as they The Region 8 wrestlers also asserted their share as Bernadette Grace Daquipil landed 1st place Juvenile
triumphed in the Cadets boys for the 46 kg and 50 kg they bagged two golds in Cadets girls for 44 kg and 48 kg E Waltz, 1st Place Juvenile E Quickstep and 2nd Place
categories respectively. respectively care of Lovely Ann dela Cruz and Jane Juvenile E Tango Standard while the power duo of
Erasmo. Justin Quandoza and Rhea Jane Tamayo copped 1st
Inspired by the support of his parents and the Place in Juvenile E Jive, 1st Place in Juvenile E
region and despite being down 6-2 early in the first Region 5, Region 7 and CAR also had one gold each Samba Latin and 2nd Place in Juvenile Cha-Cha-Cha
while Jessa Villaroza (40-kg, girls), Jonjie Enyong Latin.
VIGAN CITY – Two Western Visayas Region (42-kg, boys) and Mark Grunner Gama The awesome twosome of Kalel Clark
Athletic Association (WVRAA) cue artists pocketed (54-kg, boys) also defied their Delute and Zurielle Fiona Villaflor bagged 1st
back to back golds in the 2018 Palarong Pambansa respective opponents. (Jennie Place in Juvenile C Standard and 1st Place in
Billiards 8-ball tournament held at the Lyric Savellano and Jeric Aren Juvenile D Standard while the impregnable
Billiards Hall here, April 18. Dedicatoria) pair of John Carlo Sta. Ana, Carell Angel
at 4-all, the Antique native showcased her Rocello snatched 1st Place in Juvenile C
Abad Supeña Jr., last year’s 9-ball gold accuracy and tactics to finish the series and take Latin and 3rd Place in Juvenile D Latin.
medalist and formerly from the then Negros Island home the 8-ball girls’ crown. Equally dominant were the pair of
Region (NIR), ruled over Roy Blancaflor of the Dave Torres and Rosheen Adela Daclan who
Mimaropa Tamaraws in the championship match, Supeña and Magluyan are looking forward to pocketed 1st Place in Junior C Standard and
7-4. Supeña’s break set the table open for winning also the gold in the 9-ball tournament the Junior D Standard respectively while the
Blancaflor who took the first two racks, but Supeña following day. graceful couple of Rod Vincent Gabatilla and
rallied to tie the score at 3-3. He then allowed Gian Frezzy Ligue landed 2nd Place in Junior C Latin
Blancaflor to win just one more rack before he “Masaya po kami na naka-gold sa 8-ball and Junior D Latin respectively.
brought out his hustler skills to finish the game in dahil naghanda po talaga kami. Hindi po naging Other triumphant dancers were Charles
rack number 11. madali ang ang mga naging laban namin lalo na Justine Catapan and Francina Porol (2nd
sa finals,” (We are very happy to win the gold in Place- Junior E Jive; 2nd Place Junior E Rumba
Meanwhile, Hannah Erika Magluyan, 8-ball because we really prepared for this and Latin; and 3rd Place Junior E Chachacha),
Supeña’s stablemate and last year’s bronze they were not easy games especially in the Keanu Mich Soriano and Dawn Yvra Angeline
medallist, toppled last year’s 9-ball champ Scyntyl finals), Magluyan said during the post-game de los Nieves (2nd Place Junior E Quickstep; 2nd
Rose Brillantes of the R-12 Sox, 7-5, in the final interview. Place Junior E Tango Standard; and 2nd Place-
game. Although Brillantes managed to tie the score Junior E waltz Standard)
Magluyan’s coach Cherry May Villaflores “Pinaghandaan po namin talaga ang
said that the diligence of her protegé was the competition na ito”(We really prepared for this
key to Erika’s triumphant 8-ball conquest competition), said coach Eugena Taopa who
considering that this will already be her last also related that the couples have undergone
Palarong Pambansa stint. (Paul Francis Banatin & rigid training and admitted that the training was
Frances Jocelle Singson) even tougher than the competition.
“Nadevelop po ang confidence ko through
dance sports at ipagpapatuloy ko po ito
hangaang sa pagtanda ko”, related Rosheen
Adela Daclan, a gold medalist.
With their positive spirits and passion
towards their talents in dancing nonetheless,
they will be a regular contender on the future
Palarong Pambansa and will always be a
standard of other regions when it comes to
dance sports.(Jennifer D. Savellano, Fahd B.
Agbulos, Aubrey S. Somera, Reymund Jimenez)

REGION VI’S Erika Magluyan aims at the 8th ball
in her finals match with Scyntyl Rose Brilliantes of
Region XII. Magluyan crushed Brilliantes 7-5 to win
the gold.

2
R1AA’s 4P’s grantee rules

Palaro high jump

A Pantawid Pamilyang meters, a new Palaro record,
Pilipino Program (4P’s) breaking the Palaro high jump
recipient from Region I record of 1.95 meters set by
dominated all other Alexis Soquero of Western
contenders in high jump (boys Visayas in 2015.
secondary) culminating in a
winning leap of 1.99 meters Raised from a poor family,
held at the world class Celeste, currently studying at
Quirino Stadium in Bantay, Anda National High School in
Ilocos Sur during the 2018 Pangasinan, dedicated his
Palarong Pambansa Stadium, victory to his grandmother
April 17. Caridad who usually shoulders
his finances.
Breaking his own personal
record of 1.90 meters, Kent “I used hay and improvised
Brian Celeste, 16, last year’s foam in my trainings as my
Palarong Pambansa silver jumping beds and my efforts
medalist in the same event, paid off,” he said.
improved his leap to 1.99 (Grace Garcia, Richard Moreno
and Susan Vicerra)

Badminton Team-Tie Finals

CALABARZON Heroes claim back-to-back title

VIGAN CITY - Proving to the Unwilling to give up the title STRIKING FEARLESLY. Reyes of
badminton fans that they are to CALABARZON, Aldreen Rae MIMAROPA gives his much strength
indeed “The Heroes” in the court, Concepcion of NCR launched her for his final throw.
the CALABARZON smashers service aces and treacherous
defeated their respective foes in drop shots to win the first set, MIMAROPA’S Reyes throws gold in Javelin
a simultaneous team-tie finals 21-16 against Jochelle Alvarez. TAMAG, VIGAN CITY- Twelve-year old ako agad dito sa Palarong Pambansa”
match for the Badminton But the latter was unfazed and Palarong Pambansa newcomer Zolio Reyes (This is my first time to join in this game
secondary girls and boys crown answered back with a of Region IV-B (Mimaropa) threw his spear and I thank God I was able to be a part of
at the Vigan Convention Center combination of service aces to a distance of 48.84 meters to bag the Palarong Pambans a), Rey es s aid.
here, April 18. and lightning-quick smashes to gold in javelin throw (boys division) at the Reyes is currently enrolled at
win the two final sets (21-10, University of Northern Philippines athletic Tabang Elementary S c hool , Abra
NCR’s Mikaela Joy De 21-15) proclaiming grounds, April 18. John Wayne Alviar of Di-ilog. According to him, he is
Guzman trounced CALABARZON’s CALABARZON the champion in Region 2 recorded 43.99 meters to snatch exc ited bec aus e as ide from
Alysa Gwyneth Desacola in the the team-tie finals, 2-1. the silver while Region IV-B’s Aaron John winning the gold, he will also
singles match, giving Region IV-A a Aranez settled for bronze as a result of his receive inc entives for his s ter ling
bad start. But this was reversed by The win gave 43.94m effort. performance.
the tandem of Jelline Geviane De CALABARZON their back-to- “Ngayon lang ako lumahok sa laro na (Mary Joy Aubrey Utreta, Marvin
Vera and Danielle Aubrey back gold as they also ‘to pero salamat sa Diyos dahil nakarating Inay and Nathaniel Santella)
Masongsong who retaliated by barrelled their way to win the
trouncing Ghiselle Erika Bautista championship crown in
and Victoria Elizabeth Yason of Antique last year. (Saniata
NCR to tie the score at 1-1. Piano)

NCR tops 50m archery qualifying round
SANILDEFONSO,IIocos Sur-A
lingeringshoulder tendinitisdid not Region I’s Cole B. Sua with 301 points Meanwhile, Phoebe Nicole
stopNCR’ssharpshooter Jonathan and Aeron Jhon Lanuza of Region II Amistoso of Region VII set a new
Reaport from hitting the bull’s eye in with 296 points who ranked 2nd and record in the girl’s division as she
the 50m distance. 3rd place respectively. dominated and fired a total score
of 339 in 30m and 326 in 40m.
Displaying the sharpest shots of “I know that I am still young Maria Karylle K. Pangilinan of
the day, Reaport wowed a sizeable not only in age but also in Region III came close with 336,
crowd by repeatedly hitting bull’s eye experience, that’s why I joined while Charmaine Angela P.
to emerge on top spot in the archery archery competitions inside and Villamor hit 333 points. Others in
qualifying roundshere, April 17. outside the country to enhance the list are Julie Ann E. Malinog of
my skills,” Reaport said. CARAGA (324) and Zetha Elea Mae
Engaged in a tight battle with Cataluña of Region X with 318
the best in the country, Reaport NCR’s archery coach Crispin points. (Augie Boy Lorenzana,
exhibited consistent precision, stance Gimena said that Reaport’s Karrina June A. Panelo, Irene
and endurance from 1st – 6th ends of performance is good but it’s not Javillonar, Dharen Jake Garcia)
the entire match for a total score of yet his best and he definitely can
304. He was trailed closely behind by do more.

Table Tennis elementary mixed doubles finals 3

NCRAA dethrones R1AA

SAN ILDEFONSO, ILOCOS SUR - “Puso at determinasyon ang 3 gold medalists to join
NCRAA Stalwarts recovered from two nanaig sa aking mga manlalaro upang
sets down to snatch the table tennis maibalik sa amin ang kampeonato” International Pencak Silat bout
mixed-doubleschampionship crown, (Love for the game and the
3-2 (11-13, 2-11,11-8, 11-6, 11-7) determination by my players were the Riena E. Elnar (Region VII), Adriano got 2 gold medals in
dethroning defending champion R1AA factors why we were able to regain Palarong Pambansa 2017 gold Batang Pinoy competition (Class
Golden Kingfishers in their gold medal the championship crown), said coach medalist, Mark Jhoniel Q. B), 3 golds in the Central Luzon
match in the 2018 Palarong Pambansa Vinessa Cruz of the Stalwarts. Cabindol (Region VI), and Marie Regional Athletic Association
here, April 18. June P. Adriano (Region VII) will match (Class A) and 2 bronzes in
“Nawalan ng pokus at naging represent the country in the Women’s Festival (Class A).
The Stalwarts’s power duo of kampante ang aking mga International Pencak Silat
Kheith Rhynne Cruz and Joshua manlalaro kaya siguro competitions to be held in The three pesilats will be
Manlapas patiently waited for the napakawalan namin ang gintong Thailand, April 23-May 5. trained by known trainer-coach
right time to deliver their devastating medalya” (My players lost their Alex Patamo.
cross-shots, drop shots, slices and focus and became overconfident Elnar snatched 2 gold medals
potent serves to destroy the pair of that’s why we failed to retain our in Grassroots match (Class D), 2 ”The participation of the
R1AA’s J-An Sanchez and Dennis Paul crown), said coach Dennis Paul golds in the Sultan’s Cup (Class D), three athletes in Thailand is a
Sagun who played lax in the 3rd and 4th Sagun of the Golden Kingfisher. 5 golds in Batang Pinoy (Class E) realization of our goal and that is
sets paving the way for the Stalwarts and 1 gold in the Dinagyang to expose the athletes in interna-
to compose themselves for the come- In the secondary doubles Festival competitions (Class E). tional competitions,” Celia Hicarte
from behind win. match, STCAA swept ZPRAA, 3-0 to Cabindol won 5 gold medals in Kiram, Commissioner of the
claim the gold medal. Batang Pinoy (Class A), 3 golds in Philsilat Sports Association,
“Huwag mawawalan ng pag- Sultan’s Cup (Class A) and 2 golds Incorporated, said. (by Marjorie C.
asa kahit gaano man kalayo ang Meanwhile, NCRAA defeated in the Dinagyang Festival (Class A). Quijano)
lamang ng kalaban,”(Don’t lose hope STRAA in their elementary boys
even if the opponents have a doubles match; STCAA upset
commanding advantage), Cruz said in STCAA in their elementary girls
the post-match interview. doubles match; NCRAA clobbered
DAVRAA in secondary boys
The duo of Sanchez and Sagun doubles match and CVRAA
snatched the crown from the NCRAA’s toppled STRAA in their secondary
duo last year’s Palarong Pambansa in girls doubles match. (Tom
Antique. Sumbad & Aniceto Pagaling Jr.)

Visayan lass rules 400m hurdles

In her sixth stint in Palarong In the elementary level, R1AA beats CAVRAA in softball Game 15
Pambansa, topnotch hurdler Region IV-A’s Princess Jane
Rizza Jane Vallente of Mabini, Uriarte snatched the gold with The Golden King Fishers
Bohol successfully defended her a record of 01.09.07 in the of the Region1 Athletic
throne for the 3rd time - her 3rd same event. Association (R1AA) ousted the
gold since 2015 in the 400 meter Green Hawks of the Cagayan
hurdles (secondary girls) finals at “Nascout ko lang siya Valley Region Athletic
Quirino Stadium, Bantay, Ilocos noong Intrams at nakita kong Association (CAVRAA), 3-1, in a
Sur, April 17. may potential siya. (I scouted neck and neck battle in softball
her during our intramurals and elementary division at the
Vallente hugged the I saw that she has the Cirilo Lao Construction
spotlight after topping the event potential),” said April Joy Compound in Bantay,Ilocos Sur,
by clocking 01.01.45 to defeat Hilario, Uriarte’s coach. April 17.
rival Bernalyn Bejoy of Region VI
(01.01.88) and Crystal Mae Vibal Region VIII’s Wency The King Fishers recorded
of Region V. Marie Eli grabbed the silver two consecutive runs in the
while Cherrylyn Santiago of fourth inning after Hannah
“I won because of my Region VI finished 3rd. (Pauline Lorraine Carino, 12, right
family and teammates. They are Louise Arucan and Melburga fielder, hit the ball which
my inspirations,” she said. Imelda Peña) paved the way for two R1AA to
advance bases where one
Do or die match safely reached home.

Kingfishers trip Vulcans, 4-1 The Green Hawks scored the R1AA retaliated with a
a homer in the fifth inning but homer of their own to finish
Nailing the last slot for the quarter final round, the Golden the game at 3-1.
Kingfishers crushed the Vulcans, 4-1, in a do-or-die match in football
elementary at the Quirino Stadium football field, April 18. This game, so far, is the
first win of the R1AA
George Mathew Espiloy led a scintillating attack in the first half elementary softball players.
and drew first blood for a 1-0 edge. (Richard Moreno)

The Vulcans played their hearts out but it was a pale
comparison to the swagger and energy of the Golden Kingfishers.

Gerald Gill Tungpalan exploded in the second half and sent the
ball whistling past the Vulcans’ goalkeeper for a 2-1 lead at the Vulcan
kicker sneaked in a goal earlier. The flawless routines of Espiloy and
Tungpalan kept the Vulcans at bay while they continued to play
aggressive to score their 3rd goal for a commanding 3-1 lead.

The Golden kingfishers capped the game with another blasting
kick for a 4-1 finish. (Sharon Castillo /Darwin Mendoza)

4

First timer clinches gold in long jump

Region VI-A’s newbie settled for silver and Jenny
Krisleen Shane Santiago Ordoñez who grabbed the
surprised everyone after bronze at 4.64 meters.
springing 4.83 meters in long
jump finals (girls, “Sipag lang po at
elementary), dwarfing her determinasyon para manalo.
foes to win the gold at the Syempre, samahan natin ng
Quirino Stadium, Bantay, panalangin (It’s hardwork and
Ilocos Sur, April 17. determination that brought me
here.Of course, it should be
Bucking her nerves, Santiago associated with a prayer),”
eclipsed Bicol Vulcans’ Santiago said. (Pauline Louise
Elizabeth Sicat (4.73m) who B. Arucan & Imelda Peña)

PIA holds Sports Journalism Awarding Ceremony

The Department of The results of the contest and ALS, Jenelyn Role who is the Schools Division Superintendent
Education, through the Philippine were as follows; Photojournalism PIA Director for Region 1 and of Vigan City, Ilocos Sur.
Information Agency, conducted - 1st Place (Region VII), 2nd Place Marian S. Abalayan, the Sports
the National Sports Journalism (Region V and NCR) and 3rd Place Editor of the Sunstar Davao who “In this age of “fake news”
Awarding Ceremony held at Vigan (Region IV-B); Exemplar Story also served as judges for the and changing digital technology,
City Division Office, April 16. Writing - 1st Place (Region VII), 2nd competition. we need writers who will tell true
Place (Region IV-B) and 3rd Place stories – based on what they see,
A 3-day writing contest was (Region II). Together with them are what they hear and what they
made as a write-up activity for the Anselmo M. Aludino, the Schools know.” Asec. Ambat said in her
journalists after the two-day The awarding ceremony was Division Superintendent and message.
Sports Journalism Seminar graced by GH S. Ambat, the DepEd Meneleo B. Palma, the Asst.
sponsored by the Philippine Ass. Sec. for Public Affairs Services It was an avenue for the
Sports Commission. young journalists to bestow and
develop their journalistic prowess
The said seminar was in full prospective not only in the
participated by the National Palaro but also they are involved
Schools Press Conference (NSPC) in information dissemination
winners and School Paper during the Brigada Eskwela and
Advisers of the different Regions other DepEd national activities.
of the Philippines at the NSCC
Plaza, Caoayan, Ilocos Sur. Succeeding events for Day 2
(April 17) – Sports News and
Afterwhich, the journalists Sports Feature Writing and Day –
competed for Photojournalism 3 (April17) Feature Writing about
and Exemplar Stories (about the Vigan/Ilocos Sur will be followed.
Opening of Palaro) writing (Augie Boy Lorenzana, Irene A.
contests for Day-1. Javillonar, Karrina June A. Panelo)

Sponsors pour-in supplies to technical officials, athletes

Five major companies tied-up Other major sponsors who
with the DepEd External Partnerships showed their support in the Palaro
Service to support the athletes and this year are MVP Sports Foundation,
technical officials of the Palarong Coca-Cola FEMSA, Bonifacio Art
Pambansa 2018 this week. Foundation(The Mind Museum),
Technical officials in selected Mogu Mogu, Smart-Talk n Text,
events received sports apparel from TechnoSports(Babolat), Pacific
Milo and pillows, tumbler, backpacks Paint(Boysen), Trendz 360 Philippines
and dri-fit shirts from Petron. All (Adidas), JB Music and Sports, Finis
athletes also received emergency life Philippines, Ayala Corporation,
packs from Holcim and bottled water Duckten Corporation(Stix and Kix),
from Magnolia. One Meralco Foundation, San Miguel
Sports equipment will also be Corporation, MedEthix,Secondwind,
given to winners in selected events Philippine Daily Inquirer and Manila
as special prizes by Topcoms. Bulletin. (Saniata M. Piano) GM Torre: In chess either way you are a winner

“If you win, it’s a sweet memory; have physical exercise and to stay
if you loss, it’s a learning away from drugs and vices. These
experience. So either way, you are a things according to him, are
winner,” was the encouraging necessary if one is into chess.
remark of Grandmaster Eugene
Torre to the young woodpushers “It is my love to this game that
during the chess tournament brought me here. So love the sport
opening program last April 16 at the that you are into,” he added.
Baluarte Function Hall-A, Vigan City.
Torre is the first Asian Grand
GM Torre advised the young Master and is every chess player’s
athletes to give their best in every man “to look up to.” (Gerlie de la
game, to eat brain-healthy food, to Rosa Lorna Halabaso & Liezl
Heraña)

Behind a Great Athlete 5
For the 61st edition of Palarong Pambansa, scattered around spotting the next sports stars
the country and the world at large witnessed our like Paolo Pablico, the team captain of St. Paul THE PALARO TORCH
sports legends Paeng Nepomuceno, Efren “Bata” College of Ilocos Sur Volleyball Varsity who was
Reyes, Mansueto “Onyok” Velasco, Elma Muros- courted by different coaches four years ago. He Editorial Board
Posadas, Hidilyn Diaz, Eric Buhain, Eugene Torre, then picked Adamson University for his college
and Gab Moreno gathered in one frame for the education, and at present, he is the one ushering Editor-in-Chief
presentation of colors during the Opening the Adamson Soaring Falcons to amazing UAAP Lydia T. Liclican
Program. No doubt, we remember them. wins. And if these athletes will push their luck Associate Editor
Forever they will linger in sports history. But even further, they might even end up playing in Maria Concepcion A. Iglesias
somewhere behind these names we take delight the international arena and bring laurels for the Feature Editors
in watching are unsung heroes who deserve, I Philippines like Lydia de Vega and Elma Muros- Maria Novena A. Sarmiento, Frances
suppose, an equal share of recognition, or at Posadas, both Palarong Pambansa babies. Jocelle Singson, Jenny Rose Arenas-
least, appreciation. They are the athletes’
coaches. This is how significant the role coaches play, Gestole
yet their names remain largely anonymous. News Editors
In the context of Palarong Pambansa, the Aside from the tremendous influence they bring Mark Manzano, Saniata M. Piano, Edlyn
sports success of student athletes can be traced on the physical, psychological and mental Arranz, Susana Vicerra, Irene Javillonar
from the scrupulous eyes of their coaches, who development of their athletes, it’s the personal Sports Editors
are of course, their teachers. While it’s true that relationship they build and nurture that is worth Edward Antonio, Daniel Cuenca Jr.,
they may have innate talent or skill, or their commending throughout the rigorous Marvin Tacal, Aniceto Pagaling Jr.,
parents may have provided them with basic or preparations and trainings. Thomas Sumbad, Pablo Tabin, Jr.
advanced training, it’s their coaches who opened Field Writers
doors of opportunities leading to Provincial & Coaches of Palaro are not only trainers. Marvin Inay, Rose Joy Lagmay, Imelda
Regional meets, and finally the road to Palaro. They are likewise teachers who juggle work to Peña, Pauline Arucan, Jocelyn Sabrido,
finish their school forms, or or lectors who serve Karrina June Panelo, Augie Boy
But it could not be really the end for some; their parishes, or fathers who have not spent a Lorenzana, Arlyn Bautista, April Bobiles,
the Palaro journey might just be the beginning month’s time with their own children because Kizzel Mina, Jean Ishrael Dulay, Antonio
of their sporting career. Coaches of big of in-house trainings. Regunton, Jhoana Lyn Andres, Irene
universities and colleges are usually just Balasan, Ria Samelin, Mary Joy Ligayo,
They too, deserve a gold medal. Richard Moreno, Mary Joy Lardizabal
Julius Antonio, Sharon Castillo, Paul
What Does It Take to Be an Excellent Athlete? Francis Banatin, Marjorie Quijano, Mary
Fifteen thousand student-athletes from 17 time influenced heavily by external factors such as Joy Aubrey Utrera, Liezl Heraña, Leah
provinces compete for this year’s Palarong Pambansa opportunity and motivation. A gifted athlete has a Montilla, Arlene Ragunjan,Gerlie dela
in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur. President Rodrigo Duterte graced premature advantage in the process of development. Rosa, Jennifer Requilman, Joseph Dulatre,
the official opening of the country’s largest youth Motivation and drive will help to mature those gifts Flordelina Lascota, Jasmin M. Abella,
sporting event on April 15 and hailed the athletes with constant practice and coaching. Once the athlete Jennie Savellano, Joselito Leal, Ferdinand
“champions already” even before the games begin. progresses, he develops the skills environmentally which Legaspi, Lorna Halabaso, Fahd Agbulos,
Now, in this world of elite sporting events, the ultimately results in being the champion. Other external Grace Garcia, Jennifer Savellano, Michelle
question “what makes a champion” presents itself. Are factors that contribute in the making of an excellent Vilog, Neil Kim Collado, Kristy Ann
champions born or bred? Can an ordinary athlete be athlete are: nutrition, coaching and socio-economic Guerero, Jeric Aren Dedicatoria, Shirley
turned into a world-class champion? What does it take factors. Daño, Elvie Ribuyaco, Aileen Anselmo,
to be an excellent athlete? An athlete’s diet and nutrition is crucial. It must Allen Abo, Delfin Irorita, Avelyn Joyce
Nature be low in fat but high in protein and carbohydrates for Flores,Lorena Cabanit, Erika Karen
Genes play a role in the making of an excellent optimum strength. In addition, excellent athletes have Eleccion, Karen De Leon
athlete. The most influential traits are: VO2 max their trusted coaches who push them to achieve their Photojournalists
potential (which is the maximum volume of oxygen a great potential. Manuel Zacarias, Claire Tagasa, Charles
person can use), height, gender and skeletal muscle Nature VS Nurture Bernal, Paul Benedict Yacap, Juan Carlos
composition. Height is a big factor in choosing basketball Talent without work is useless. There are Iglesias, Winette Sanidad, Aubrey
athletes and VO2 max potential is very consequential excellent athletes out there who were not born with Somera, Dharen-Jake Garcia, Allen
in sports like sprint and marathon. Similarly, athletes the perfect athletic genes but they were able to Bolesa, Kenneth Raguindin, Darwin
with stronger muscle capacity automatically transition master their acquired skill and reached a level of Mendoza, Arnel Bacnis, Nathaniel
themselves easily in strength-based sports like wrestling superiority. A combination of nature and nurture is Santella, Peter Gadia, Jr., Reymund
or football. needed to reach the optimal route of maximizing Jimenez, Marilyn Raciles
Nurture talent potential. Champion athletes reinforce hard Layout Artists
Gifts are inborn but it takes informal learning and work ethics, strong drive, confidence, motivation and Mark Lovis Galanga, Rhoda Mae
maturation for these gifts to be fully expressed. Talents positive mindset over any and all inborn gifts or Aguimbag, Myrone Troy Dulatre, Joemar
on the other hand, are methodically developed over talents. 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,
Rhoda Mae Aguimbag
Medal Tallyists
Leilani Navarro and Lamberto Rosario

Asst. Adviser
Mr. Marlon G. Taloza

Adviser
Dr. MarCiaoSnasluolmtaentRs. Abero

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

With its total renovation under the helmsmanship
of Gov. Ryan Luiz V. Singson, the President Elpidio
Quirino Stadium surely has a new horizon.

It has become the center of sports competitions
not only for Ilocosurians, but also for those who
come from other areas in the north.

The renovation of the office in 2013. The planning has
stadium started last February started by bringing the ideas
2015, only three years before into reality. The stadium which
the 2018 Palarong Pambansa was used to be bare and idle
This world class stadium played has become Region 1’s finest.
a pivotal role on why the
Province of Ilocos Sur snagged Yes, the President Elpidio
powerhouse provinces and cities Quirino Stadium has its new
during the final bidding. face to look at, a new
perspective to view. It’s now
This stadium features earning the public’s admiration,
covered court for indoor since it is already regarded as
activities such as badminton and “state of the art” venue as far
table tennis, wide and infinity as athletic competitions and
swimming pool with touch pads, cultural presentations are
basketball and volleyball courts, concerned.
quarters or billeting area, the
first ever beach volleyball court Gone were the days when
inside a stadium, race track, Pres. Elpidio Quirino Stadium
bleachers and the artificial turf was the object of criticism and
in the football field which ridiculous remarks by some
measures 50 by 100 meters. unscrupulous individuals in the
province. Unlike in the past,
Also, the rubberized football wherein a lot of negative
field within the complex was the remarks were thrown by some
venue for the match between critic-provincemates, if not shall
the Philippine Askals and we say...”fault finders”.
Australia’s Perth Glory.
The Quirino Stadium now
This project is a product of paves its way to become an
a dream of the Provincial attractive venue for various
Government of Ilocos Sur long activities in the north.
before Gov. Singson assumed

Photos by: Manuel Zacarias

Wheneverit’sPalarong Everything is possible! This is Dilim ng langit, pilit pasiklabin
Pambansa, there is this irrepressible what can be conveyed from the first Buhos ng ulan, buhos ng damdamin
eagerness of everyone to take a picture stanza. It gives us an image of a young Puso’t isip na ayaw paawat
of the splendid venue, to witness the Filipino full of dreams which turn into Titila pag nanalo, titila pag sapat
colorful parade of regions, and to be reality. Many aspire and work hard to
part of the grand commencement reach Palarong Pambansa because of the Dream. Move.Conquer. Filipino
attended by honorable dignitaries, prestige it brings in addition to the athletes are unstoppable. The crave for
outstandingathletes,highly-acclaimed recognition and opportunities that lie victory is always the goal. No matter what
journalists,renownedcelebrities, ahead. To be in Palaro means to be part of it takes, the fulfillment is there once the
massivesportsenthusiasts,andvarious history, and to be part of history is one’s goal is conquered. So, to stop is never an
guests from the 17 regions of the legacy. option. It is always about moving forward
country.Consideredasthebiggestsports Bawat butil ng pawis until the victorious home run.
event in the country, Palarong Bawat iyak at hinagpis Masaktan man o masugatan
Pambansa is truly being anticipated by Bawat hampas ng alon Tagumpay ma’y kakapiraso
the Filipinos. Atletang Pinoy, tumatayo, bumabangon. Bubuksan pa rin ang mata
Dahil ito’y narating mo.
Another element which No pain. No gain. In life, the
brings out the true Palaro atmosphere track is long, and sometimes, the target is Worth it! Once the finish line is
is the official theme song which not always a bull’s-eye. The journey to the reached triumphantly, the hardship is
changes every year. For this 2018 finish line can be a dash, a run, or just a transformed to humility and gratitude.
edition of Palaro and in relation to the walk. Sometimes, if not most of the time, Filipino athletes know how to be thankful
theme, “Championing theSpirit of there are outbalances, misses, checks, regardless of the level of recognition. Little
Young Filipino Athletes”, the song fouls, and the like; however, the game will or huge accomplishment, it pays to give
“Atletang Pinoy”, composed by Edred always be on! These are just challenges thanks and be contented for the essence
Piamonteandinterpreted byWayne that make the race worth fighting and of victory is not only for self-gratification,
Alconis, is really becoming a last song pursuing for. but more importantly, it is a story to tell for
syndrome because of its motivating Matatag, di natitinag inspiration.
lines which can be remembered Atletang Pinoy, di natitibag
instantly because of the use of simple Laban Pilipino, ipakita sa mundo *****
yet meaningful Tagalog words. From a Atletang Pinoy, di sumusuko. The physical elements that
listener’s point of view, allow me to make up the event remarkable are
share my short analysis of the meaning I am indestructible! This does something to look forward for, but in a
of the song and its implication to the not only apply to Maja Salvador; instead, deeper sense, these are representations
athletes. this is imbibed in every Filipino’s heart and that depict the true essence of the
soul. Filipino are perhaps one of the Palarong Pambansa if realized deeply. The
***** bravest, steadiest, and most pliant athletes visible to the eyes are overwhelming, but
Buksan mo ang iyong mga mata, in the world. Ironically, every odd revives the implied details and carried symbols are
dati mong pangarap nasa kamay mo na. the spirit, and every defeat comes glorious self-satisfying and worth remembering. To
Hayaanglumipadang ‘yong pusoat feat. all athletes, together you sing the “Atletang
diwa Pinoy” with humility and pride. To all
Palarong Pambansa, narating mo na. athletes, relive the spirit and redefine the
championship.

by: Dharen- Jake R. Garcia

“You call it dance, I call it life. Because it’s With perseverance to win a battle
the hidden language of my soul.” gives a big slap to everyone as the

The Davao Eagles Dance abilities, believing that they time became the witness of
Sports Team lives to this can and preferably they will. fulfilling what had been dreamt of

and apparently a winning to be
treasured with journey guided by

motivations and inspirations.

philosophy that burns the Days turned into weeks were then admired and nailed, Don’t miss every
dance floor and steams up the and years as their willingness the most promising ward of second of their journey as their
audience when they are to dance never fades and still winning “The Champion”. battle begins… as dance floor
performing. ‘Tis the spirit that handle to smile when Don’t be too impulsive as their unfolds… as the music beats
keeps them alive and kicking disappointments come in their looks can be deceiving the and as the dancers sway and
throughout their performance. way. Trials in life became their Kings and Queens of Dance swag. (Aubrey S. Somera, Paul
Passion really drives motivation motivation to pursue their floor, THE DAVAO EAGLES
that brings out the natural dreams and to surpass DANCESPORTS TEAM. Benedict Yacap, Fahd B. Agbulos,
charm that enchants the judges challenges. Life meant a lot for Jennifer D. Savellano, Reymund
Jimenez)

while performing. them, no matter what
With perseverance to win obstacles they may face, no
a battle gives a big slap to matter how hard trials might
everyone as the time became invade their way, they still
the witness of fulfilling what believe that with God, nothing
had been dreamt of and is impossible.
apparently a winning to be The picture of joy could
treasured with journey guided not just be seen as a reflection
by motivations and of their performance but could
inspirations. Now is the time really be felt that emanated
for them to shine and be from their enthusiastic hearts
proclaimed as Kings and and beings. Near to perfection
Queens of the dance floor. best describes their superb
Having an experience endowing skills. The glaring
played a big role in fulfilling a and vibrant moods set by them
purpose which seemed to be a to the audience is indeed
part of their history. Through communicable.
their persistence and Giving up has no space
dedication, it is with no doubt in the idea of winning.
that they finally reaped what Nurturing minds with great
they wish. power to value the words of
With the existence of their success placed a big role in
combined spring jumps, foot exploring the world of dance
works, facial expressions and sports battle. Dreams dictate
routine, they showcased its way through their faith and
breathe taking performances. willingness to survive or a well-
Their coaches had seen their known game from which they

When we hear the light in his most-loved sport— and passion for sports. He is grab the gold medal and join the
word “athlete” we often think of swimming. definitely not going to let failure & Olympic SEA Games.
someone who plays sports Now, a grade 11 senior criticism bring him down.
pretty well, vigorous & active; high school student, he said he Now,anybody could definitely tell This man is truly a
we could imagine an athlete to once had to stop studying because he’s on the right track to remarkable example of a
be in good body shape as he there was no school that time that championing his fight. promising athlete for he possesses
engages in various physical can cater his needs as a person a plethora of passion,
activities, but wait until you with disability, but such a heart- This year’s Palarong resoluteness and inspiration — his
meet Jomar Maalam. His shattering experience did not melt Pambansa is astonighingly not his stairway to his dreams. Jomar
perfectly unique story will his chance and determination to first time for he has joined Maalam is to be admired not only
change your impression on keep going. He is more focused in swimming competitions before for his standing in sports but also
“athletes” and for life. finishing his studies and later on such as the Ironman 70.3 Asia- in his desire to pursue his
This 21 year-old native helping his family than on giving Pacific Championship in Cebu and education, as he chose to go back
of Zamboanga del Sur was born negative thoughts a chance to the Mt. Mayon Triathlon in to school after stopping years ago.
without legs from below his consume his personality. Legazpi, held in August, 2017. He
knees down to his feet. He was His inspiration is his had alsi been a delegate to the This young man, though
often bullied by his peers due to family, and there was an almost 2013 Palarong Pambansa in legless, showed us and the rest of
his physical appearance but this unnoticed sadness in his tone Dumaguete. the world that the secret to
did not stop him from reaching when he spoke about his father reaching the finish line is not by
the top and being on the spot who is sick far away home. Jomar Jomar can do backstroke, running or using one’s physical
chooses to join competitions such butterfly stroke, breast stroke and strength but by one’s passion and
as the 2018 Palarong Pambansa to freestyle swimming effortlessly. faith cultivated by our hearts.
He believes proper training and (Leah D. Montilla)
discipline is the key to one’s
chase his dreams, not by his legs improvement.
but by his burning determination
His goal for this year is to

This young man,
though legless, showed
us and the rest of the

world that the secret
to reaching the finish
line is not by running
or using one’s physical
strength but by one’s

passion and faith
cultivated by our

hearts.