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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider President Marcos pushes for active living, greater sports access in SONA

President Marcos pushes for active living, greater sports access in SONA

Published Jul 28, 2025 05:06 pm

At A Glance

  • President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. underscored his commitment to promoting a healthier and more active Filipino citizenry during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 28, by laying out comprehensive plans for grassroots sports development and public access to athletic facilities.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. underscored his commitment to promoting a healthier and more active Filipino citizenry during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 28, by laying out comprehensive plans for grassroots sports development and public access to athletic facilities.
One of the key initiatives he announced is the opening of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) track and field ovals in Pasig, Manila, and Baguio to the public free of charge to encourage fitness and active lifestyles among Filipinos.
He also reaffirmed support for grassroots sports programs, particularly the Palarong Pambansa and Batang Pinoy Games, which are scheduled to take place in General Santos City this October.
“Bubuo tayo ng bagong pambansang programa para sa sports development,” Marcos said.
“Uumpisahan natin ito sa paaralan pa lamang. Ibabalik natin ang mga sports club at magsasagawa tayo ng mga palaro at intrams sa lahat ng pampublikong paaralan,” he added, emphasizing that the PSC and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) will play key roles in supporting the nationwide sports initiative.
Marcos highlighted the importance of sports in building self-confidence and self-esteem among Filipino youth, while also serving as a platform to cultivate future world-class athletes.
He cited several sports icons as inspiration, including boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, Olympic gold medalists Hidilyn Diaz and Carlos Yulo, Olympic medalists Aira Villegas and Nesthy Petecio, pole vaulter EJ Obiena, rising tennis star Alex Eala, and Paralympians Jerrold Mangliwan, Cendy Asusano, Angel Otom, and Ernie Gawilan.
“Hindi lamang sila nakapaghatid ng kasiyahan sa buong sambayanan. Pinalakas pa nila ang pagmamahal natin sa ating bayan at lalo pang pinatingkad ang dangal ng bawat Pilipino,” the President said.
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