BOTH sending a lean roster, the Batang Pinoy teams of Misamis Oriental and Cagayan de Oro are set to plane in today for Manila en route to Vigan, Ilocos Sur ― venue of the 2022 National Youth Games popularly known as Batang Pinoy from December 17 to 22.
“Aside from the virtual sports, we're now ready to compete in swimming, athletics, chess, badminton, and table tennis. We're very grateful to Governor Peter Unabia for giving our young athletes the opportunity to showcase their talents on the national stage,” said Francis Sean Condeza, head of the 72-person Misamis Oriental Paglaum delegation alongside Efren Pollentes.
Cagayan de Oro sports coordinator Romarey Gorro is also thankful to Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy for his go-signal in the participation of the city delegates numbering over 60.
“We’re eyeing medals in the individual sports as our team will also try its luck in some virtual sports disciplines,” Gorro told Gold Star Daily.
The Batang Pinoy National Championships for athletes aged 15 years old and younger that produced Tokyo Olympic gold winner Hidilyn Diaz and world champion gymnast Caloy Yulo officially resumes after a three-year pandemic hiatus through a memorandum of agreement signed by Philippine Sports Commission Chair Noli Eala and host Ilocos Sur, Gov. Jerry Singson.
The meet expects around 7,000 athletes from 81 provinces and 144 cities and municipalities nationwide to duel it out for around 2,000 medals — 600 gold, 600 silver, and 795 bronzes — from 17 online and face-to-face events.
The historic Vigan City will host face-to-face disciplines in archery, athletics, badminton, chess, cycling, table tennis, swimming, weightlifting, and obstacle course racing (demonstration sport). While Arnis, Dancesport, Judo, Karate, Muay Thai, Pencak Silat, Taekwondo, and Wushu will be held via an online platform.
