Two young athletes from Occidental Mindoro were honored Tuesday for their bronze medal wins at the 2024 Palarong Pambansa, the country’s most prestigious scholastic athletic competition.

Occidental Mindoro Governor Ed Gadiano personally recognized Reinier R. Pellejo and Ron Kenneth H. Dalit for their achievements, which he said brought pride to the province and the entire MIMAROPA region.

Pellejo, a student at Westbridge Institute of Technology, clinched bronze in the 56 kg category of Wushu Sanda under coach Romel Macaraig.

Dalit, from Abra de Ilog Central School, secured bronze in the elementary javelin throw event, coached by Josie Tardio.

The athletes each received a cash incentive of P10,000 in a joint initiative by the Department of Education, led by Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Loida P. Adornado, and the provincial government under Governor Gadiano.

Their coaches were awarded P5,000 each in recognition of their dedication to training and nurturing young talent.

“We are immensely proud of these young athletes,” Governor Gadiano said in an FB post. “Their success at the national level showcases the sporting potential of Oriental Mindoro’s youth.”

The Palarong Pambansa, suspended since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, resumed last year with enhanced safety protocols.

The multi-sport event serves as a proving ground for young Filipino athletes, often launching careers in national and international competitions.