REMEMBERING the sports personalities who have passed on, paying tribute to para-athletes’ exemplified hard work and dedication, as well as giving emphasis on athletes who have excelled during local, national, and international competitions.
The “GABI NG PARANGAL AT PASASALAMAT” was held at SMX last April 22, 2023, and was organized by the City Government of Davao through the Sports Development Division (SDD) to give recognition to the city’s deserving athletes who have shown exemplary excellence in their chosen sports. There were 274 athletes together with their coaches, alongside 89 partners and stakeholders, all dressed up in their Filipiniana attire. The men were all dapper in Barong Tagalog while the women were all dressed to the nines in their traditional Filipiniana fashion. It was the first time to see all athletes wear something outlandish and to the theme. For the awarding rites, the awardees get medals and cash incentives.
The 23-year-old student-athlete and par excellence medallist in Judo and Wrestling, Ms. Sydney Sy-Tancontian shared her life and moments as an athlete and gave an awe-inspiring message that will get other athletes motivated as well as encouraging them to believe in their ability to succeed.
“Behind the jolly character, I cry a lot. I sometimes asked myself kung bakit ko pa ba to ginagawa? But what fuels my passion is that even with hardships, frustrations, and stress, I am happy. Nothing excites me every time I win for Davao and the Philippines. I become the person that I am because of what I have experienced.”
Coach Jonathan Rex Josol referenced the Great boxer, Muhammad Ali in his speech. Josol explained how each sports medal achieved in every competition is a battle won, because of sweat, blood, and tears.
The Republic of the Philippines Vice-President Sara Duterte honors athletes and underscored their contributions to the City through a Video Message. Also present during the event was the Chairman of the Committee on Youth and Sports Development, Councilor Jaffar U. Marohomsalic, who represented City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte and Sports Development
Division In-Charge Mr. Michael Denton P. Aportadera, lauded all sports heroes and delivered a powerful message to all athletes, “We wanted to give premium and value to all our athletes and coaches because of you the city is thriving. Because you are valuable to the city.”
Aportadera praised the organizers, SDD Committee, talents, and performers for their outstanding work in giving a tribute night fit for Davao’s sports heroes. He said as soon as he stepped into the venue all he thought was an inspiration. The Filipinana-Themed Night was styled and organized by Stunning Events and Wedding duo Mr Richie Delos Santos and Mr Christopher P. Ledesma, also heading the team of coordinators who made sure the program is
seamless is Fashion Designer and Proprietor at L’ Prima Moda, Mr John Ryan Ayala.
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