DepEd: Palaro 2015 to highlight peace and camaraderie

What started in 1948 as a quaint inter-school sporting event in Manila became an annual petri dish of discipline, teamwork, excellence, solidarity, and sportsmanship among others.

This event is now popularly known as the Palarong Pambansa.

Over the last 65 years, Palarong Pambansa has produced outstanding athletes in different fields of sports. The road to their success, however, was paved not only by victories but also by defeats and humbling experiences. As such, the Palaro has served as a training ground for opportunities and challenges.

Conducted and spearheaded by the Department of Education (DepEd), Palaro became the pinnacle event of student athletes who are hailed as regional champions in their respective hometowns after a series of sporting events starting from the school-level to the district, provincial and regional level. The thumping heart of this year’s Palaro “Breaking Borders, Building Peace”, signifies peace and unity in religion diversity through athletic rivalry and camaraderie.

Education Secretary Br. Armin A. Luistro FSC emphasizes, “More than being a sports event, Palaro depicts the crucial role of sports in inculcating a sense of well-roundedness among the Filipino youth. This year, we are taking it further by not only aiming to produce holistic and strategic-minded young individual, we are also promoting respect for fellowmen regardless of religion, ethnicity or gender." 

In line with this, DepEd Tagum City division office recently held the "Run for Palaro 2015"—a fun run event where more than 3,000 runners participated to help raise additional funds for the Palaro athletes and coaches.

DepEd recognizes the significance of sports in developing the youth’s full potential to become globally competitive citizens while contributing greatly to building the nation. Hence, the Department puts a premium on the Palaro as an avenue to showcase the abilities of future Filipino world class athletes.

The 58th Palarong Pambansa will be held on May 3-9 in the city of Tagum, Davao del Norte. More than 10,000 athletes from both public and private elementary and secondary schools are expected to compete in various sporting events. Playing fields, billeting, hygiene facilities and provision for nourishment are already in place for the athletes, coaches and trainers participating in the week-long sports development program.