The city gover-nment of Baguio honored all athletes and coaching staff who made the Summer Capital the overall champion in the Batang Pinoy National Finals in Vigan, Ilocos Sur in December 2022.
In a testimonial dinner-cum-BP 2022 Awards Day on Feb. 9, Baguio officials led by Mayor Benjamin Magalong and Vice Mayor Faustino Olowan honored the city delegation for delivering 31 gold, 30 silver, and 39 bronze medals.
Half of the medals won by Baguio athletes were not even matched by second placer Pasig City that collected 22 gold, 12 silver, and 14 bronze, or a total of 48 me-dals.
Baguio City Sports Coordinator Guadencio Gonzales said the request from his office for a passenger van for use of the athletes and personnel of his office is most likely to be granted by the city following the achievement of the city delegation.
The Philippine Sports Commission, which oversees the BP along with the Department of Education, has rewarded the city with P3 million cash for being the overall champion.
Among the notable athletes honored were archers Jath-niel Caleb Fernandez, who won six medals, and Chass Mhaiven Colas, who collected three gold and five silver medals to become the only city athlete to win eight medals in the BP National Finals 2022.
The awards day was also highlighted with performances from the winning athletes ranging from taekwondo and wushu, among other sports disciplines where the athletes won medals.
Baguio has been a consistent overall champion in BP national finals with combat sports athletes dominating their respective events. – Harley F. Palangchao
