DPS tankers swim for charity in C de Oro

MANILA, Philippines - Outstanding swimmers and honor students from the Diliman Preparatory School, run by former Sen. Nikki Coseteng, will compete for charity in the first Mindanao Swimming Cup age group championships slated Feb 12 in calamity-hit Cagayan de Oro.

The competition, originally set this weekend, was postponed to give swimmers from Mindanao enough time to prepare for the event which kicks off the monthly swimming circuit organized by the Philippine Swimming League.

Despite the calamity that hit the city, Gov. Oscar Moreno offered the free use of the pool for children competing in various age groups – 6 years, 7-8, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14, 15-17 and 18-over.

Coseteng and the DPS tankers – Doragos siblings Sam Andrei (8 years), Portia Kate (11) and John Carlo (13), Kyle Mendoza (13), Naomi Corpus (11) and Ariene Macaso (14) – will also do volunteer jobs for the victims of Typhoon Sendong.

Coseteng said those who would like to help in the volunteer effort may bring their donations to the DPS on Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City.

“Through this swimming event, we also hope to reinforce bonds of friendship among our youth and create better understanding for an everlasting peace within the region,” said Coseteng.

Coseteng and Philippine Swimming League president Susan Papa work hand in hand to provide what they call “the best program possible for swimmers to further develop their individual potentials so they will reach a higher level of competitiveness and eventually become world-class swimmers.”

“Our objective is also to develop our youth as fully integrated members of society – not just to promote swimming as a sport but also to develop the young generation,” said Papa. “The DPS tankers are not only winning swimmers but honor students as well.”

“With the help of coaches Alvin Benasa, Rey Balandra, Edward Maut from Cagayan de Oro, Jun Rodriguez of Davao, Leroy Geoff of Zamboanga and coach Ecleo of Surigao, we can expect hundreds of participants in the competition,” she added.

 “Our continuous effort of developing our young swimmers will allow them to develop their skills and strength,” said Coseteng, “This will sustain their interest and motivate them to continue using their time for healthy and constructive pursuits.”