ILOILO City – The Department of Education (DepEd) Region 6 has reminded Western Visayas athletes competing in the 2026 Palarong Pambansa in Agusan del Sur that the true value of the national games lies not in medals but in personal growth, discipline, and character formation.
During the orientation program for the Region 6 delegation at Rosario Central School in Agusan del Sur on May 21, Assistant Regional Director Miguel Mac Aposin urged the more than 1,000-member contingent to view the prestigious sporting event as an opportunity to become better individuals beyond the pursuit of championship honors.
“You are Western Visayas’ best bets,” Aposin told the learner-athletes and coaches as he welcomed them to the competition.
Aposin stressed that participation in the Palarong Pambansa should go beyond athletic achievement and serve as a life-shaping experience for the young athletes representing the region.
“Let this be an opportunity for you to showcase your talent and abilities, but more importantly, an opportunity to become better persons, better sons and daughters to your families, and responsible members of your communities,” he emphasized.
He also underscored the lasting impact of the national sporting event on the lives of student-athletes.
“When you grow older, you will look back and say that the Palarong Pambansa made you a better person,” Aposin said.
Western Visayas is eyeing either the championship or runner-up honors in the 66th Palarong Pambansa, but DepEd-6 officials emphasized that the event’s greater mission is to mold disciplined, resilient, and responsible youth.
“What matters most is that you become better individuals after your participation in the Palarong Pambansa. Medals are just a bonus. The experience itself will transform you into better persons,” Aposin stressed.
The Western Visayas delegation is composed of 1,023 members, including athletes, coaches, chaperones, and technical personnel competing under the theme “Stronger Champs.”
Aposin likewise reminded coaches and trainers to act not only as mentors but also as second parents to the athletes throughout the duration of the games./PN
