President Rodrigo Duterte graced the grand opening ceremonies of this year’s Palarong Pambansa 2017.
On Sunday, April 23, the event opened in Antique. Palarong Pambansa will run until Saturday, April 29.
Although he attended the opening ceremonies, he did not actually open the event due to logistical reasons.
The opening ceremonies included cultural presentations and stunts that amazed the locals, guests, and participants. The Philippine Air Force had fly-by and skydive exhibition during the event.
Education Secretary Leonor Briones and Senator Loren Legarda joined the president in the opening ceremonies. Others who were also present included members of the Philippine Sports Commission board and Philippine Olympic Committee Chair Peping Cojuangco.
Track and field legend Elma Muros, who will be awarded the first-ever Palarong Pambansa Lifetime Achievement Award, joined the VIPs.
Palarong Pambansa is the largest local sports event in the Philippines. Its objective is to develop the potentials of the youth to become competitive worldwide.
