WITH the national government continuously finding ways to provide opportunities through sports, Milo Philippines reaffirmed its support to the former and lauded its efforts to further cultivate the country’s sports program.
Speaking at the recently-concluded Batang Pinoy National Finals organized by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Milo Sports Manager Lester P. Castillo said they are very proud of their involvement in Batang Pinoy, which is geared towards championing Filipino youth athletes and uplifting the sporting community through grassroots sports.
“We are happy to be among the supporters of PSC’s Batang Pinoy National Finals that has been a proponent of getting more young Filipinos into sports,” said Mr. Castillo.
Adding, “We believe that sports teach children character-forming values such as teamwork, discipline and confidence. These are the same values that children need to be successful later on in life as they continue to pursue their ambitions. The PSC’s Batang Pinoy has long advocated for the development of physical qualities and moral values, a vision that we at Milo share with them.”
Milo’s involvement in the Batang Pinoy program, Mr. Castillo said, is an extension of Milo’s thrust through programs like the Milo Summer Sports Clinics, Milo Little Olympics, Milo Brgy. Liga and the National Milo Marathon.
Among these are the establishment of the country’s first Sports Academy, done in cooperation with the Department of Education, and the rolling-out of the Philippine Sports Institute-Sports Mapping Action Research Talent Identification.
Both initiatives were unveiled in the Batang Pinoy in Palawan.
“This unprecedented development entails a brighter future for grassroots sports development in the Philippines,” said Mr. Castillo.
“We are very fortunate to have been given a chance by the PSC to support the National Finals of Batang Pinoy. Hopefully our team can find ways to continue the collaboration with the PSC in preparation for future Batang Pinoy programs. Such partnerships can continue enabling the youth to become champions not only in sports but also in life,” he added.
BAGUIO AS CHAMPION
Meanwhile, Baguio City was declared the champion in the Batang Pinoy after winning the most number of gold medals.
It won 61 top hardware from over 600 gold medals handed out in the competition while also bagging 25 silver and 70 bronze medals. Cebu took second place with a 36-34-35 medal haul. Davao was third with 31-30-41.
Over 8,500 athletes from 249 cities and provinces nationwide saw action in the prestigious youth tournament, which was staged by the PSC with help from DepEd, Milo, Department of Interior and Local Government and the people and officials of Puerto Princesa City. — Michael Angelo S. Murillo
