TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Education (DepEd) regional office has lauded Eastern Visayas athletes for rising to the 7th rank in the recent Palarong Pambansa, surpassing previous records.
The DepEd regional office reported the Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic Association (EVRAA) delegation accumulated 54 medals, including 18 gold, 14 silver, and 22 bronze medals – the highest total number of medals the EVRAA had won.
In the history of the Palarong Pambansa, the highest number of gold medals achieved by the EVRAA delegates was 11 back in 2015 in Tagum City. In 2023, EVRAA ranked 14th out of 17 delegations.
Jan Dwayne Malpas, a 12-year-old athlete from Tacloban City, achieved a significant milestone, garnering four gold medals in swimming. He also garnered a bronze medal in the 50-meter freestyle during the Palarong Pambansa in Cebu City held July 9 to 16.
“His outstanding performance exemplifies the talent and determination of our athletes and serves as an inspiration to the entire EVRAA delegation,” the DepEd said in a statement issued late Tuesday.
The DepEd regional office also takes pride in the achievements of the athletes in the para games (1 gold, 1 silver, and 3 bronze medals) and demo sports (1 gold and 1 bronze medal).
“DepEd Region 8 extends its heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders, including local government officials, coaches, parents, athletes, supporters, and those who have been instrumental in reaching this milestone,” the statement added.
The education department said it remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting physical education and sports, developing youth values such as teamwork and sportsmanship, and fostering peace through sports. (PNA)
