NAUJAN, Oriental Mindoro — Vice President Sara Duterte on Tuesday emphasized on the indispensable role of sports in the growth and development of Filipino youth

Duterte, who was guest of honor during inauguration of the Oriental Mindoro Sports Complex here, said sports and education are deeply connected in ensuring that children are protected from forces that hamper their pursuit of better lives and future.

She congratulated the provincial government for building a sports facility that would benefit the children and youth of the province.

In sports, she said, “Winning becomes the fire that ignites their (children and youth) desire to win more games.”

“But most importantly, sports teach them that winning is sweeter when it is celebrated with humility and when magnanimity becomes a source of inspiration for others to play future games better,” she said.

She also went on to stress the lesson offered by sports to those who lose in the competitions.

“In defeat, on the one hand, sports teaches them to harness their inner strength and maturity to persevere, work harder, and pick themselves up when they fall — and stand with a strong resolve to once again fight and fight to win,” she said.

The sports complex, Duterte said, is a symbol of the aspiration of the provincial government of Oriental Mindoro for their children and youth.

“Magsisilbi itong simbolo ng pag-asa para sa ating mga kabataang may interest sa sports,” Duterte said.

“Pero isa rin itong paalala sa mga opisyal ng gobyerno na kailangan nating isulong ang mga programang gagabay sa mga kabataan patungo sa magandang bukas,” Duterte added.

The sports complex features a multi-purpose hall, standard-sized track and field oval, tennis court, basketball court, and a volleyball court.

The Secretary of Education expressed hope that the provincial government will be able to craft sports programs that “should focus on developing our youth's physical strength, discipline, teamwork, and tenacity to overcome life's challenges.”

“When Filipino children and youth get into sports, they learn the value of discipline, hard work, and healthy competition,” she said.

And once again, she called on parents to ensure their children finish their education and warned them against being influenced by the New People’s Army.

“Hindi po gaganda ang buhay ng ating mga anak kung sasapi sila sa New People’s Army. Hindi po nila makakamit ang kanilang mga pangarap kung sasama sila sa isang kilusan na ang tanging hangarin ay sirain ang kinabukasan ng mga kabataan,” she said.

“Tandaan po sana natin na ang dala ng insurhensiya sa ating buhay ay trahedya,” she added.

The inauguration of the sports complex was in time for the opening of the Oriental Mindoro Provincial Athletics Meet.

Six teams have enlisted to compete in various fields.

Duterte extended monetary contributions to all six participating units, their coaches, and technical officials.

OVP MEDIA