President Duterte on Friday led the groundbreaking ceremony of the Philippine Sports Training Center (PSTC) in Bagac, Bataan that will serve after three years as the "future home" of the nation's athletes.

In leading the event, Duterte said the project only shows the government's concerted efforts, which in turn "can create a huge impact on the future of our athletes and of the Filipino youth as a whole."

"It likewise proves that—in order to achieve progress, address the needs of our people, and provide the efficient, responsive, and inclusive services that they justly deserve—we need to uphold the ideals of synergy, collaboration, and the whole-of-government approach," he said.

Once completed, the outgoing President said, PSTC will be instrumental in honing "the skills and talents of our athletes, coaches, and referees."

He added it will also help "in boosting their morale as they compete locally and hopefully globally."

PSTC, which is situated on a 25-hectare land donated by the Bataan provincial government, will also feature facilities for administrative, medical, sports science, and dormitories for athletes and coaches.

Duterte expressed confidence that the country would raise more world-class athletes to represent the Philippines in international competitions and usher in a thriving sports industry locally.

"As I am now near the end of my term, it is my hope that the succeeding administration will continue and complete this project as well as pursue other similar projects that would benefit our athletes in the years to come," he added.