MABALACAT, Pampanga — The National Academy of Sports (NAS) marked a key milestone with the completion of its first-ever Grade 10 batch, while setting its sights on a strong showing in the 2025 Palarong Pambansa in Ilocos Norte.

A ceremony held on April 19 celebrated the academic and athletic achievements of NAS’ pioneer student-athletes. The event was attended by Senator Pia Cayetano, Department of Education (DepEd) Undersecretary for Operations Malcolm Garma, and NAS Vice Chair Richard Bachmann, with representatives from the offices of Senators Bong Go and Win Gatchalian also present.

In a message on behalf of Education Secretary and NAS Board Chair Sonny Angara, Usec. Garma praised the completers for proving that academic and athletic excellence can go hand in hand.

“Today, you crossed your first finish line. But the race is far from over. And the world is watching,” the message said.

Secretary Angara, one of the principal authors of Republic Act No. 11470, which established NAS in 2020, envisioned the academy as a training ground for young Filipino sports talents through quality education and world-class athletic programs.

The academy’s growing success is evident. Its swim team recently won multiple golds in national meets, while its table tennis squad brought home medals from the World Table Tennis Youth Contender Series.

Since last year, NAS has competed as a separate delegation in the Palarong Pambansa. With its sights set on the 2025 edition, NAS aims to further elevate the level of competition in grassroots sports.

Secretary Angara also paid tribute to Filipino sports icons Teófilo Yldefonso, Hidilyn Diaz, and Carlos Yulo. Yldefonso, known as the “Ilocano Shark,” is featured in the logo of the upcoming Palaro. Diaz and Yulo, both Olympic medalists, were cited as inspirations for young athletes.

Officials also thanked NAS Executive Director Josephine Reyes and the faculty and coaching staff for laying a strong foundation for future champions.

NAS operates under the Department of Education and offers a specialized secondary program for student-athletes, as part of President Marcos’ vision for a Bagong Pilipinas anchored in grassroots sports development.