Despite their disabilities, two athletes from Mangaldan, Pangasinan proved that determination and hard work can lead to success in sports.

Ginalyn Piscador and Euhie Fontanilla participated in the para-athletics events of the 2024 Palarong Pambansa held from July 11 to 15, 2024 in Cebu City.

Piscador, who is visually impaired, won a bronze medal in the 100-meter run. Fontanilla, who has an intellectual disability, placed seventh in the same competition.

Piscador credits her perseverance to the support and inspiration from her teachers and family.

"If kaya naman, gawin lang po. Kung wala mang tiwala sa sarili, panghawakan nalang yung tiwala or parang support na binibigay ng mga taong nasa paligid nila. Most important thing [is to] trust God, kahit pwd (person with disability) ka man or what condition you are [in]," she said.

For Fontanilla, participating in the Palarong Pambansa was a great honor, competing against athletes from 17 regions. 

"Okay lang po, medyo malalakas yung mga kalaban, [pero] madami din ako naging kaibigan," she said.

Mangaldan Integrated School continues to focus on strengthening and supporting learners with special needs. 

The school aims to enhance not only their intellectual abilities but also their talents in sports.

"Tini-treat namin sila as equal. Hindi porket hindi sila regular, hindi namin sila papansinin. Actually sila pa yung nage-excell sa klase," Jinky Enriquez, their coach, said.

For Piscador and Fontanilla, their disabilities are not obstacles but challenges that can be overcome. 

Their achievements in the Palarong Pambansa stand as a testament to their determination and hard work.

On July 16, Ilocos Norte was announced as the host of the 2025 games.