

By Jerome S. Galunan, Jr.
President Rodrigo Duterte addressed the opening ceremonies of the 2017 Palarong Pambansa at the Binirayan Sports Complex in Antique, yesterday.
Speaking before the estimated 20,000 gathered, Duterte touted the budget the Department of Education (DepEd) receives from the national government.
“The education department gets the biggest share in the annual approved national budget,” he said. “Government is building competitive values for the youth, fairness, and sense of goodwill.”
“It’s my sacred duty to ensure the transfer of values will be made before I die,” Duterte added.
He also touched upon other aspects of his administration, including the fight against corruption and illegal drugs.
Also in attendance were DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones, Antique Governor Rhodora Cadiao, Senator Loren Legarda, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Mark Villar, among others.
Earlier this month, Briones said the event poses a “challenge” to educators, asking, “Have we been successful in developing a holistic learner who is capable both inside the classroom and out in the playing field?”
She also called the Palarong Pambansa a “veritable exhibit of fairness, camaraderie, and sportsmanship that the country will be proud to showcase at international sports events.”/WDJ