ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – Young Zamboangueño athletes have made their mark on the Philippine sports scene, securing an impressive 7th place finish out of 177 contingents at the Batang Pinoy Games 2024 held in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, from November 23 to 28.
Over 11,000 athletes participated in the competition, which featured three age categories: 12-13 years, 14-15 years, and 16-17 years.
The Batang Pinoy, or Philippine Youth Games, is a national multi-sport competition for Filipino youth athletes under 18 years old. Sponsored by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), and Philippine Aquatics, Inc. (PAI), the games aim to help young athletes develop their skills and talents while promoting healthy competition, sportsmanship, and physical fitness.
The city’s young athletes demonstrated exceptional skill and determination, bringing home a total of 74 medals: 29 gold, 26 silver, and 19 bronze. This remarkable achievement underscores Zamboanga City’s growing reputation as a hub for nurturing young athletic talent.
Philippine Sports Commission Executive Director Paulo Francisco Tatad commended the athletes, stating,
You are the cornerstone upon which all grassroots sports development efforts are built. Your passion, perseverance, and talent are proof that the future of Philippine sports is bright.”
Pasig City emerged as the overall champion of the games with a total of 285 medals, followed closely by Baguio City with 253 medals. (JPA/JFT/PIA9 – ZAMSULTA)
