Eastern Visayas athletes are starting this year’s Palarong Pambansa with a bang!
In a statement, the Department of Education (DepEd) Leyte Division lauded two outstanding student-athletes from the region for their impressive performances in the opening days of this year’s Palarong Pambansa, held in Laoag, Ilocos Norte.
Chrisia Mae Tajarros and Efosa John Paul Aguinaldo both bagged gold medals, bringing pride to Eastern Visayas as the national multi-sport event kicked off on Monday, May 26, 2025.
Tajarros, a Grade 8 student-athlete from Leyte Sports Academy (LSA) and Tanauan National High School, made a remarkable comeback after finishing with a silver medal in last year’s girls’ 3,000-meter run in Cebu City.
But what made her win more significant is the fact that she placed in the competition despite running barefoot. A determination that will never be measured by any brand of shoes or medal.
“This triumph is a reflection of Chrishia Mae’s dedication and discipline, as well as the collaborative effort of her coaches, mentors, and the entire support system that surrounds our athletes,” DepEd said in a statement.
“Her victory inspires the rest of our delegation and brings honor to the entire Eastern Visayas community.”
Meanwhile, Aguinaldo, a Grade 11 student from Hindang Stand-Alone Senior High School, made headlines with his victory in the long jump at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium in Laoag.
His win adds to the region’s growing reputation in national sports competitions where many are hopeful to break last year’s record wherein the region placed 7th in the overall tally with 54 medals.
This year’s Palarong Pambansa features over 14,000 student-athletes from 18 regions competing in 34 sports under the theme “Nagkakaisang Kapuluan.”
The event aims to foster unity and sportsmanship among Filipino youth, and Tajarros and Aguinaldo’s victories highlight the region’s emerging talent and dedication to excellence in sports.
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