DAVAO DEL NORTE, Philippines – Rains and thunders never halted the athletes, coaches, technical officials and spectators to enjoy the opening of what considered to be the ‘Best ever’ Palarong Pambansa 2015 yesterday (May4) at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex.
Davao del Norte Gov. Rodolfo del Rosario said that the provincial government dreamed of hosting and showcasing the ‘best Palarong Pambansa ever’ since the ground breaking of the sports complex on November 11, 2011 (11-11-11) and its inauguration on December 12, 2012 (12-12-12).
“So, lo and behold, that dream culminates today as we open the Palarong Pambansa 2015,” Governor Del Rosario said.
Del Rosario said that all the preparations focused on the young athletes as the center of the national sporting event.
“We have spared no effort and expenses to ensure their safety and convenience so that they (athletes) will have the best experience that they can get here in Davao del Norte,” he said.
Gov. Del Rosario also said that the Palaro broke borders to build peace.
“Sports cannot solve all our multifarious problems but it can help us achieve our aim of becoming one solid nation,” he said.
He said that the Palaro as the Olympics of the grassroots brought the values of fair play, respect and friendship that stood beyond any indifferences and animosity stemming out out of gender, culture, religion, politics, status or any other prejudices.
The opening of the Palarong Pambansa gathered together more than 12,000 people at the sports complex.
Among the highlights of the opening was presentation of the teachers and students from the four schools districts in the province while the rains poured down heavily.
Sports legends like Elma Muros, Eric Buhain and Yannick Tuason turned over the Palaro torches to the young athlete, who then lighted the Friendship Flame together with Davao del Norte District 1 Representative Anthony Rafael Del Rosario and TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva.
‘Palarong Pambansa’ opened in Davao del Norte
