New Clark City (NCC), Capas, Tarlac
June 14, 2022

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte led the inspection of the National Academy of Sports (NAS) – Main Campus located at the New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac.

Recalling the victory of Hidilyn Diaz who bagged the Philippines’ first ever gold medal in the Olympics, President Duterte emphasized in his keynote address that her feat has encouraged the Filipino public, especially the youth, to take notice of the Filipino athletes in their endeavors in global sports.

“It is thus an opportunity, time for me to help them maximize their potential with constant comprehensive projects and activities that promote the welfare and development of our athletes,” he said, adding that the NAS is envisioned to be a world-class facility that would serve as a forefront in the efforts to provide a conducive environment for the academic, sports training and character development of young Filipino athletes.

“It is therefore my hope and maybe my prayer that the pioneer batch of student athletes become well-rounded Olympians and champions that will carry our flag in the international sports arena and inspire a deep sense of patriotism among the Filipinos,” the Chief Executive continued.

By virtue of Republic Act (RA) No. 11470, the NAS was institutionalized to recognize and develop talented students from all sectors, including those from indigenous communities and persons with disabilities (PWDs), and other marginalized groups.

The NAS System is an attached institution of the Department of Education (DepEd) in partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).

“I am ever conscious that it is my duty to protect the young and itong mga bata, mga anak natin. That is why I had no hesitation and I was very happy to sign the law that would pave the way for this to evolve, something which is really beautiful and magnificent to be,” President Duterte ended.

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