By Mikee Natinga Norico
Joshua Miguel Bañas, table tennis singles gold medalist (1st from right) with Alain Vincent R. Dominguez and Jannuel A. Forro, the incredible duo who claimed the 1st runner-up spot in Table Tennis Boys Doubles at Palarong Pambansa 2024 and assistant coach, Centralian Jee Ar Gicana.
The Central Philippine University (CPU) Golden Lions made a commendable showing at the recently concluded Palarong Pambansa held in Cebu City from July 6 to 17, 2024. Despite facing tough competition from the country’s top young athletes, the CPU contingent managed to bring home several medals.
The CPU elementary division showcased exceptional talent, particularly in table tennis and tennis. Joshua Miguel A. Bañas, a Grade 6 student, emerged victorious and got the gold in the table tennis singles category and also secured a silver medal in the doubles event. Meanwhile, Diana Frances Z. Alcarde, a Grade 4 standout, claimed the championship title in tennis, while Anthony Bjorn G. Castigador, a Grade 6 athlete, dominated the boys’ division by winning gold in both singles and mixed doubles.
In the secondary level, CPU athletes also displayed remarkable prowess. Marriane Abbygail T. Barcelona, a Grade 12 student, earned a silver medal in the badminton singles category. The swimming team, composed of Dee Vianne R. Catedrilla and Candace F. Franco, secured silver medals in the 4×50 and 4×100 medley relays.
Table tennis and taekwondo also contributed to CPU’s medal haul. Alain Vincent R. Dominguez and Jannuel A. Forro clinched a silver medal in the table tennis doubles event. In taekwondo, Justine James J. Diasnes garnered the 1st Runner-Up title in the boys’ division. The girls’ taekwondo team, represented by Mary Noelle T. Alim, Sheine Nicole S. De Asis, Hannah Margarette R. Dello, and Kristina Carla B. Habana, also achieved 1st Runner-Up placements.
While not all athletes were able to bring home medals, their participation and dedication to representing CPU are commendable. The university extends its heartfelt congratulations to all the CPU Golden Lions for their exceptional performance. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a testament to CPU’s commitment to holistic student development.
Here are the official results from elementary and secondary level:
