President Duterte expressed optimism that the National Academy of Sports (NAS) in New Clark City (NCC) in Tarlac could hone world-class athletes and champions who will bring honor to the country and spur a sense of nationalism among Filipinos.
Duterte said this during his inspection of the academy's main campus on Tuesday, June 14.
In his speech, the President said the NAS is envisioned as a world-class facility that will serve at the forefront of the country's efforts to provide a conducive environment for academic, sports training, and character development for young Filipino athletes.
"It is, therefore, my hope and maybe my prayer that the pioneer batch of student-athletes become well-rounded Olympians and champions who will carry our flag in the international sports arena and inspire a deep sense of patriotism among Filipinos," he said.
"Let us continue to work with one another to sustain our present golden era of sports—even beyond my term—keeping in mind that the legacy we are building will not be ours alone but also for the succeeding generations to come," he added.
The President particularly cited the feat of Hidilyn Diaz, who won the Philippines' first Gold medal in the Tokyo Olympics last year.
He added that Diaz had beaten the odds and paved the way for more aspiring athletes to excel and win medals for the country.
"I am pleased that her feat has encouraged the public, especially the youth, to take notice of the many talented athletes who are making waves in international sports," Duterte said.
"It is thus an opportune time for me to help them maximize their potential with constant comprehensive projects and activities that promote the welfare and development of our athletes," he added.
President Duterte also commended the NAS, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), and all government and private partners that contributed to the construction of the new institution despite the limitations brought by the coronavirus pandemic.
The NAS was institutionalized under Republic Act (RA) No. 11470 to recognize and develop talented students from all sectors, including indigenous communities, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and other marginalized groups.
It is an attached institution of the Department of Education (DepEd) in partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).