Angeles City Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. on March 26, 2025, awarded certificates of recognition and cash incentives to 13 student-athletes and three coaches from Gueco Balibago Elementary School for their outstanding performance in the 122nd Central Northern Luzon Cordillera Swimming Coaches Association competition. The simple awarding ceremony was held at the Mayor’s Office to celebrate their victory and commitment to sports excellence.
The young swimmers, who represented Angeles City with pride, received their certificates and monetary rewards from Mayor Lazatin as a token of the city’s appreciation for their dedication and achievement. The awardees included Hugo Santos, Amari Xiann Malinao, Ezekiel Smith, Daren Felipe, Loraine Presilda, Calliope Santos, Jelianne Macandog, Sanlee De Vera, Georgina Miranda, Amelia Bolario, Francheska Cortez, Audrey Mirasol, and Hannah Roxas.
Mayor Lazatin also honored the coaches who guided and trained the students to success—Bernardino Policarpio Jr., Bryan Ocampo, and Amelia Piñon. They, too, were given certificates of recognition and cash incentives for their efforts and mentorship in leading the team to victory.
In his message, Mayor Lazatin commended the students and coaches not just for winning, but for demonstrating discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. “Ang inyong tagumpay ay patunay na ang sipag, tiyaga, at dedikasyon ay susi sa tagumpay. Patuloy kaming susuporta sa inyong mga pangarap,” he said.
The recognition forms part of the city’s continuous efforts to support youth development through sports. Mayor Lazatin emphasized that achievements like these deserve recognition to inspire more students to engage in healthy and productive activities.
The Gueco Balibago swimmers’ recent win brought pride not only to their school but to the entire city, proving that grassroots-level athletes can achieve greatness with the right guidance and support.
With the encouragement of the city government, more young Angeleños are expected to shine in sports and other extra-curricular fields, contributing to a well-rounded and empowered generation.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
