You are already winners.

This, in a nutshell, was House Speaker Isabela 6th district Rep. Faustino "Bojie" Dy III's message to all the participants of the 2026 Palarong Pambansa, which began Sunday, May 24 in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.

The annual event gathers thousands of student-athletes from across the country.

Dy described the Palarong Pambansa as more than just a competition for medals and championships, saying it is also a celebration of hard work, sacrifice, teamwork, and perseverance.

“Ang Palarong Pambansa ay isang pagdiriwang ng sipag, disiplina, teamwork, at pangarap ng kabataang Pilipino,” he said.

(The Palarong Pambansa is a celebration of hard work, discipline, teamwork, and the dreams of Filipino youth.)

The House leader told the participants that reaching the Palarong Pambansa is already an achievement in itself.

“Hindi man lahat ay mag-uuwi ng medalya, lahat ng nakarating dito ay maituturing nang panalo dahil sa dedikasyon at tiyagang inyong ipinakita,” he added.

(Even if not everyone brings home a medal, all who made it here can already be considered winners because of the dedication and perseverance you have shown.)

Dy says the Palarong Pambansa has the power to inspire more young Filipinos to dream bigger, work harder, and believe in their own potential as they pursue excellence both in sports and in life.

“Nawa’y magsilbing inspirasyon ang Palarong Pambansa upang mas marami pang kabataan ang mangarap, magsikap, at maniwala sa kanilang kakayahan,” Dy said in a video message for the country’s premier youth sports competition.

(May the Palarong Pambansa serve as an inspiration for more young people to dream, strive, and believe in their abilities.)

The House leader also praised the determination and discipline shown by student-athletes throughout their journey to the national competition.

“Sa bawat ensayo, bawat pawis, bawat sakripisyo, at bawat laban, ipinapakita ninyo ang tunay na diwa ng sportsmanship at ang lakas ng kabataang Pilipino,” Dy stressed.

(With every practice, every sweat, every sacrifice, and every match, you show the true spirit of sportsmanship and the strength of the Filipino youth.)

Dy also acknowledged the important role played by coaches, teachers, parents, volunteers, and organizers in helping guide and support the athletes.

“Ang tagumpay ng ating kabataan ay tagumpay rin ng bawat taong tumulong upang maabot nila ang kanilang mga pangarap,” he said.

(The success of our youth is also the success of everyone who helped them reach their dreams.)

The Speaker urged athletes to compete with integrity and pride as they represent their schools, communities, and regions.

The games will be held until May 31.