One NCR, One Spirit, One Goal: 2026 NCR Palaro Blazes to Life at Rizal Memorial Stadium
The historic Rizal Memorial Stadium transformed into a cauldron of youthful energy today, March 3, as the 2026 NCR Palaro officially commenced with a spectacle befitting the region’s brightest athletic stars. With the theme “One NCR, One Spirit, One Goal,” the ceremony marked the beginning of a week where talent, discipline, and sportsmanship take center stage.
DepEd NCR Regional Director and concurrent Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Operations, Asec. Jocelyn DR Andaya, beamed with pride as she welcomed the 16 Schools Division Offices and formally declared the opening of the week-long competition, vowing to deliver the best competitions for all NCR learner-athletes.
Hosted by the Schools Division Office Manila under the dynamic leadership of SDS Sheryll T. Gayola, the event was a masterclass in pageantry. The Manila City Band set the tone, while the OLPGV Tribe and select schools delivered performances that celebrated local culture and pride.
Manila Mayor Hon. Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso took the podium to deliver an address that resonated deeply, sharing his personal vision of how sports serve as a vehicle for Manila’s youth to achieve their dreams of a brighter tomorrow. His words were preceded by an introduction from Vice Mayor Hon. Angela Lei “Chi” Atienza.
Delivering the keynote, DepEd Undersecretary Peter Irving C. Corvera emphasized the Department’s renewed commitment under Secretary Sonny Angara, positioning education and school sports as a beacon of hope for every Filipino learner.
The ceremonial highlights saw the hoisting of flags, the solemn Oath of Sportsmanship led by gold medalist Mary Rose B. Gomez, and the Oath of Officiating Officials by Karl Eddie T. Malabanan. The evening’s pinnacle arrived with the Lighting of the Torch.
As the NCR Gintong Palaro Community Dance closed the program, one thing was certain: the stage is set for a week of unparalleled camaraderie, fierce competitiveness, and the birth of new champions.
