Palarong Panrehiyon in full swing in Mandaluyong

SOME 8,000 athletes, coaches, and officials from 15 cities and two municipalities are seeing action in the ongoing National Capital Region leg of the 2013 Palarong Panrehiyon.

Hostilities in 15 events formally kicked off on Monday when colorful opening rites ushered the meet being hosted by Mandaluyong City for the second time in coordination with the Department of Education.

City Mayor Benhur Abalos welcomed the delegates from the different competing cities during the opening ceremonies held at the Greenfield District in Mandaluyong.   

The amiable mayor referred to the participating young athletes as winners, having been chosen to represent their respective cities.

“You are all winners, you are the best of the best from the Metro Manila (area). Be an inspiration among your colleagues,” said Abalos in his speech.

Theme for this year is `ATLETANG PINOY sa Matuwid na Pagbabago.’

Quezon City is the defending overall champion in the elementary division, while Manila is the reigning titlist in the high school side.

Both elementary and high school students are competing in volleyball, basketball, football, table tennis, badminton, sepak takraw, arnis, taekwondo, boxing, swimming, chess, lawn tennis, dancesport, gymnastics, and athletics.

Volleyball and basketball games will be held at the Mandaluyong gym, football matches at the Don Bosco Mandaluyong, and swimming at Philsports Arena.

Top athletes who will emerge in each events based on point system will represent NCA in the national finals set in Dumaguete City.

Final day of competitions and awarding ceremonies will be held this Friday at the RTU Quadrangle in Mandaluyong.