On behalf of the Department of Education, I extend my warmest greetings and congratulations to the officials, organizers, working committees, partners, stakeholders, and delegates of the 2019 Palarong Pambansa hosted by Davao City!

The theme, “Shaping the Future through Sports,” is highly auspicious as we strive to produce holistically developed 21st century learners who will be the country’s future leaders and nation-builders. Through the Sports Track of the Senior High School Program under the K to 12 curriculum, we seek not only to produce globally competitive Filipino athletes, but also to inculcate among our learners the virtues of discipline, perseverance, sportsmanship, hard work, honesty, and solidarity.

This year’s edition of Palarong Pambansa will also introduce the Larong Pinoy and Sports Heroes Day-two exciting events that speak of our commitment and loyalty to our culture that reflects our soul and unites our people. Also known as the Philippine Indigenous Games, Larong Pinoy aims to strengthen and revive the traditional Pinoy games, while the Sports Heroes Day will provide our young athletes the opportunity to personally interact with their Filipino sports idols and icons.

To all the athletes and their coaches, I wish you all the success in this year’s Palaro! Bear in mind, however, that while the goal is to bring home the championship, there is more to winning or losing your sports event. What matters in the end is that you have given your best shot in every single game. To the City Government of Davao, DepEd-Region XI, and all who have made this historic occasion possible, thank you for helping us achieve another milestone that will contribute to the realization of our vision and mission to deliver quality, accessible, relevant, and liberating basic education.

Again, congratulations to everyone, and mabuhay!

 

LEONOR MAGTOLIS BRIONES
Secretary
Department of Education