Summer Sports Camp: Balbalan LGU holds youth training to boost skills, promote productivity

SPORTS

Balbalan, Kalinga – Turning the summer vacation into a season of productivity, the Municipal Local Government Unit (LGU) of Balbalan, headed by Mayor Almar Malannag, is conducting a month-long sports camp for the youth to enhance their skills and keep them engaged.

Balbalan is among the municipalities in Kalinga that have been excelling in various sporting competitions, with some athletes representing the province in regional and national events.

This year, the LGU said the training will focus on sports such as volleyball, basketball, and table tennis. Interested elementary and high school students in the municipality are encouraged to join and develop their athletic skills through the one-month program, which will culminate before the opening of classes in June 2026.

The table tennis clinic was the first to begin, with players starting their training on April 13. Basketball and volleyball training sessions will follow once available slots are filled.

In a phone interview, Mayor Malannag shared that the summer sports camp was conceptualized to provide a productive outlet for the youth during the vacation.

“Nu bakasyon, dagitoy uubbing, imbis nga apan da agpasyar, ag-cellphone da, mapan agmot-motor or agpicnic, wennu kinumpurmi dita, ag-training da lattan iti sports. Isu nga in-open ko diay gym ta pagay-ayaman da ken inprovide tayo iti table kas kada bola,” he said.

When asked why table tennis was included in this year’s sports clinic, the mayor explained that many iBalbalans are interested in the sport and wish to further develop their skills, especially those with potential to compete in higher-level competitions. He added that the initiative also aims to strengthen individual sports events in the municipality.