IBA, Zambales — Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. hailed the student athletes, their coaches, teachers and parents for bagging first runner-up honors as a team in the 2026 Central Luzon Athletic Association (CLRAA) Meet.
The governor, through Board Member Rundy Ebdane, also wishes success the athletes who will represent Region 3 in the Palarong Pambansa next month.
In a simple ceremony held at the Zambales Sports Complex and Gymnasium on Monday, BM Ebdane greeted the athletes and delegates with celebratory beats of drums and echoing hooray to congratulate each member of Team Zambales for the successful CLRAA campaign in Tarlac and Aurora.
With him are key officials of Zambales including Board Member Carl Eric Rico, Provincial Sports Development Officer Jade Ballesteros, Executive Assistant to the Governor Larraine Rico and Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Alberto Otchengco Jr., who represented Superintendent William Roderick Fallorin.
Athletes who contributed the gold, silver and bronze medals won in various sports disciplines were recognized alongside their respective coaches.
They were given cash incentives as token of appreciation for a job well done, and as a concrete show of support by the local administration and high regard for the sacrifice and achievements.
In his congratulatory message, Ebdane extended his gratitude to the athletes and sports officials who brought pride to the province. He also said that once the sports complex and football stadium were completed, sports in Zambales will go through in a greater heights.
"Let us work together for Zambales! Sulong Zambales, Arangkada Zambaleño!" he said.