GERONA WELCOMES 'PALARONG PAMBANSA' TORCH

Geronians converged last April 5 in Barangay Magaspac to witness the passing of the torch of sportsmanship in a relay that began at the Tarlac Recreational Park in San Jose town to open the 2010 Palarong Pambansa.

Proposed by Gov. Victor Yap, the first-ever torch relay was a preliminary activity before the actual competitions which would run from April 11 to 17.

Among the participants were PNP Gerona, DepEd Riders-Gerona Chapter, Geronian athletes, coaches, trainers, supporters, and the 10 Geronian Palarong Pambansa participants in their “Go Gerona” jerseys.

Jarell Sumaoang, an elementary school athlete of Gerona and a Region III representative in athletics for the Palaro, heads the fun run as he carried the torch from the boundary to the municipal hall.

A short ceremony followed right after the fun run where Mayor Dennis Norman Go and Chief of Tarlac Physical Fitness and Recreational Programs Cesar Abalon gave their messages.

 “I am 46, and I never thought that Tarlac would be hosting Palarong Pambansa. Now that we personally see the torch, we are much honored and very eager to unify for this event’s success,” Go said.

Mayor Go also commended the athletes for their perseverance in giving their bests for the community’s pride.

After Paniqui, Gerona is the 12th destination of the torch in the province which was handed to San Clemente a day after.

 “Gerona is now a part of the Palarong Pambansa legacy. We warmly felt your support and may Gerona boost more,” Abalon said.