By Rowena T. Cruz A young participant practices basic punching techniques during the Mulanay Grassroots Sports Empowerment Program, as a coa...
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| A young participant practices basic punching techniques during the Mulanay Grassroots Sports Empowerment Program, as a coach demonstrates proper form and pad work while fellow students observe at the training session in Mulanay, Quezon. (Mulanay PIO) |
MULANAY, Quezon — More than just a sports clinic, the Mulanay Grassroots Sports Empowerment Program brought together young athletes from across the municipality for hands-on training in boxing, arnis, karate, and archery. Participants from elementary and high schools joined the two-day activity to develop fundamental skills and strengthen discipline through sports.
The Provincial Sports Development Office organized the activity as part of its grassroots training rollout in Quezon Province, with Coach Aris Mercene leading the sessions. The initiative supports the province’s continuing effort to expand access to organized sports programs at the community level.
Mercene said the program focuses not only on teaching skills but also on building values among the youth. He stressed that sports can serve as a tool for unity and personal growth.
“Trainers conducted structured drills covering boxing techniques, arnis fundamentals, karate forms, and archery precision, and safety protocols were strictly observed to ensure a secure and productive learning environment,” Mercene said.
He said the program aims to strengthen unity and promote genuine sportsmanship among the youth by encouraging teamwork, mutual respect, and discipline during training sessions. He added that the initiative seeks to inspire young athletes to pursue their dreams with determination, whether in competition or in their academic and personal lives.
“This program is not only about teaching techniques but also about shaping character and building confidence among our young athletes. We want them to understand that discipline in sports can guide them toward success in school and in life,” he said.
Mercene added that grassroots programs play an important role in helping young athletes improve over time, especially in communities where access to training is limited. He explained that early training helps identify potential talent and builds discipline, focus, and responsibility among participants.
Mulanay Vice Mayor Jay Castilleja also attended the activity and reaffirmed the municipality’s support for provincial sports initiatives. He said collaboration between the local government and the province helps create more opportunities for young people.
“This is one of several sports programs being conducted by the Provincial Sports Development Office in different municipalities across Quezon Province, and we are thankful that Mulanay is part of this initiative,” Castilleja said. “We will continue supporting programs like this to ensure that our youth are given opportunities to grow and excel.”
He said sports programs help shape the character of young people in the community by teaching discipline and accountability. He added that these activities promote respect, teamwork, and perseverance beyond competition.
“Grassroots sports programs teach children at an early age and help them grow through structured activities that promote discipline and teamwork,” he added. “Through sports, our young people learn respect, fair play, and the value of hard work.”
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