In a stirring address at the Cordillera Administrative Region Athletic Association (CARAA) meet in La Trinidad, Benguet, Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara rallied over 4,000 young athletes to set their sights on international sports glory. The event, held on February 23, 2025, marked the beginning of a weeklong competition that drew participants from across the six provinces and two cities of the Cordillera region.
Angara, emphasizing the region’s mountainous terrain, drew a powerful analogy between climbing the country’s highest peaks and achieving success in sports. ‘Before reaching the summit, you must first conquer the steep trails, endure the cold, fatigue, and sleepless nights. Every struggle is a test, and those who persevere will stand atop. Sports are no different,’ he declared, inspiring the young athletes to embrace the challenges ahead.
Highlighting the journeys of Olympic gold medalists Carlos Yulo and Hidilyn Diaz, and world champion EJ Obiena, Angara reminded the athletes that even the greatest champions faced setbacks before reaching their goals. He encouraged them to view competitions not merely as a quest for medals but as a daily battle of courage against life’s challenges.
Angara stressed the importance of showing up and giving one’s best effort, acknowledging that while not all will become champions, every athlete has the opportunity to demonstrate courage, discipline, and integrity. He challenged the athletes to compete fiercely yet fairly, to win with humility and lose with dignity, honoring their schools, provinces, and Cordilleran heritage.
Looking ahead, Angara announced that the upcoming Palarong Pambansa in Ilocos Norte in May would introduce weightlifting and pole vaulting as new competition areas. He also congratulated the Cordillera region for its top performances in wushu and taekwondo at the previous Palarong Pambansa in Cebu, further fueling the athletes’ drive to excel.