By: Waylon Galvez
Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio emphasized the importance of a strong grassroots sports program, calling it the backbone for producing world-class athletes for international competitions.
One of the PSC’s flagship programs that serves as a stepping stone for young athletes is the Batang Pinoy.
“Grassroots program will not happen without a Batang Pinoy that is well-funded,” said Gregorio.
“With a great program, hosted by provinces every year, kapag tinuloy-tuloy natin ‘yan, maganda ang resulta for Philippine sports.”
The 2025 edition of the Batang Pinoy National Championship in General Santos City was formally launched on Thursday, October 2, at the Century Park Hotel in Manila.
PSC commissioner and Batang Pinoy project director Bong Coo said this year’s edition is expected to be the biggest yet, with 19,075 athletes set to compete in the multi-sport event for 17-and-under participants across 27 sports.
In addition, 4,397 coaches and 1,241 officials from 191 local government units will participate, bringing the total number of delegates to 24,713 for the competition scheduled from October 24 to 31.
“As project director, I’m proud to welcome you to what is shaping up to be our biggest and most exciting Philippine Youth Games. We’re more ready than ever. PSC will take charge,” said Coo.
As in previous editions, the overall national champion will take home P5 million and a trophy, while the second to fifth placers will receive P4 million, P3 million, P2 million, and P1 million, respectively.
Gregorio clarified that the cash incentives will be allocated to the LGUs’ sports programs.
“We announced that the first place LGU gets P5 million. Para sa atleta nila ‘yan. ‘Yan po ay para sa sports program ng LGU. Kaya considerable ang amount,” said Gregorio.
“‘Yung nanalong LGU deserves all the money and the support for the Philippine Sports Commission para tuloy-tuloy ang programa nila sa sports,” he added.
In last year’s edition held in Puerto Princesa, Pasig City claimed the overall title with 105 gold, 64 silver, and 116 bronze medals.
