Marcos to Palarong Pambansa athletes: You are already champions

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr. encouraged student-athletes in the 2023 Palarong Pambansa to give their best and compete fairly as the games opened in Marikina on Monday.

Marcos graced the tournament's opening ceremony at the Marikina Sports Center, along with Vice President and Department of Education (DepEd) secretary Sara Duterte.

"As you take part in your chosen sport, remember you are already champions. And now, you represent your respective schools and localities. Compete with excellence, fairness, and integrity," said Marcos.

"It is also my hope that you will enjoy every moment in this competition and make memories during this competition that you will keep close to your heart for the rest of your life," he added.

Marcos also assured that the government "remains steadfast in developing the prowess of our young athletes and in championing their well-being."

He also urged DepEd to develop the talents of the students-athletes by providing to them resources they need for their improvement.

"With consistent and diligent efforts, I am confident that they will eventually bring glory to our nation not only in the field of sports, but also in other endeavors that they will choose to pursue."

The Palarong Pambansa will be held until August 5, 2023.

—Justin Kenneth Carandang/JMB, GMA Integrated News