PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur — In a move to expand inclusivity and showcase a wider spectrum of athletic talent, this 12 months’s Palarong Pambansa will incorporate chosen Para Games events as exhibition competitions, officials announced because the national school sports meet gears as much as kick off on Sunday, May 24.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the 66th edition of the country’s premier youth sporting event goals to advertise a “fairer and more inclusive” environment by opening up opportunities for learners with diverse abilities.
“We proceed to expand spaces for participation and recognize various types of sporting excellence,” Angara said, emphasizing that the inclusion of Para Games exhibition events complements broader reforms within the Palaro.
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Malcolm Garma, Department of Education Undersecretary for Operations and Secretary General of the Palarong Pambansa Board, revealed that among the many Para Games exhibitions taking center stage this 12 months are sitting volleyball and table tennis, where student-athletes with disabilities will compete alongside regular and demonstration sports.
Garma shared the small print during a press conference Saturday on the Palarong Pambansa Media Center, situated throughout the provincial government center complex. He was joined by Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane, Jr.and Vice Governor Patricia Anne Plaza in addressing questions from media representatives.
In a press statement on the DepEd website, Angara said the introduction of those events reflects a broader DepEd technique to expand competitive platforms and foster inclusive participation across all learner segments.
“Through more inclusive categories corresponding to the Para Games exhibition events, we’ve got more opportunities to acknowledge and develop the talent of each young athlete,” he added.
Cane expressed strong support for Para Games athletes, pushing DepEd and Palaro organizers to contemplate including their medal achievements within the official medal tally in future editions.
“Imagine a half-blind Para athlete competing in regular track and field events — this may make the national school children’s sporting event truly fair to all,” Cane said.
Lately, the Palaro has steadily broadened its roster. This 12 months also sees additions corresponding to weightlifting, girls’ football (secondary), and elementary girls’ futsal as regular events, alongside demonstration sports including karate and kickboxing.
With greater than 13,000 delegates expected from across the country — including contingents from the National Academy of Sports and Philippine Schools Overseas — this 12 months’s Palarong Pambansa is shaping as much as be some of the expansive editions yet.
“As our student-athletes prepare to take the sphere, track, and courts, these inclusive events reflect our commitment to celebrating every learner’s capability, determination, and spirit,” Angara said.
The weeklong multi-sport competition will run through May 31 across various venues in Agusan del Sur, with organizers ensuring strict health and safety protocols alongside meticulous logistical planning for a smooth opening. INQ