On December 16, 2024, Angeles City Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. distributed ₱130,000 worth of cash incentives to the winners of the Batang Pinoy National Championships. The event, which took place from November 23-28, 2024, in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, saw Angeles City athletes shine as they brought home one gold, three silver, and four bronze medals. This recognition celebrates the hard work and dedication of both the student-athletes and their coaches.
The awarding ceremony saw five student-athletes and five coaches receiving certificates of recognition and cash incentives. Each gold medalist was awarded ₱20,000, silver medalists received ₱15,000, and bronze medalists were given ₱10,000 each. Coaches who supported the athletes throughout their journey were also acknowledged with ₱5,000 cash incentives for their significant contributions to the athletes’ success.
The student-athletes recognized during the ceremony included April Joy Claros, Renesmee Morales, Joshua Mallari, Lester Jones Paruli, and Samuel Lee Caba. These young athletes made remarkable achievements in the competition, bringing pride to the city of Angeles. Alongside them, their dedicated coaches—Flowery Capati, Rosever Pascua, Bernardino Alindogan, Lara Liwanag, and Analyn Joy Benito—were honored for their guidance and training.
During the event, Mayor Lazatin praised the athletes for their exemplary performances and reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting grassroots sports programs. “We take pride in our student-athletes who have brought honor to Angeles City. This recognition is a testament to their hard work and dedication,” said Mayor Lazatin. He also emphasized the importance of fostering athletic talent at the grassroots level to help the youth reach their full potential in sports.
The mayor expressed his deep gratitude to the coaches and trainers who played a vital role in preparing the athletes for the competition. He acknowledged that their guidance and support were crucial to the athletes’ successes and that the collaboration between athletes and coaches was key to achieving the medals.
Mayor Lazatin’s administration remains steadfast in its support for sports development, with a focus on providing opportunities for young people to excel in athletics. Through various programs, the city government aims to nurture local talent and promote athletic excellence, empowering the youth to achieve both in sports and in life.
Also present at the ceremony was Angeles City Sports Officer Trisha Maeve Mendiola, who expressed her gratitude to the athletes and coaches for their hard work and dedication. The event not only celebrated the athletic achievements of the student-athletes but also reinforced the city’s ongoing commitment to fostering sports excellence.