Gonzaga hoping to qualify for Palarong Pambansa

Ayl Xyza Gonzaga of Olongapo City is back in training as she prepares for the Central Luzon regional qualifying for this year’s Palarong Pambansa.
Laoag City, the capital of Ilocos Norte, will host the Palarong Pambansa from May 24-31.
The 13-year-old Gonzaga was named Most Valuable Player for winning three titles at the Mayor Josef Fortich Cagas National Juniors Tennis Championships in Digos City, Davao del Sur last Sunday.
In the singles category, Gonzaga beat Princess Placa, 6-2, 6-0, in the U14 final and annexed the U16 title after prevailing over Mariam Mokalam, 6-0, 6-3.
She teamed up with Sanchena Francisco to capture the U18 doubles title over Camille Jhed Clar and Dhea Angelica Cua, 8-4.
“I am super happy and thankful to God, and my family and friends for their support. I also want to thank coach Richard Cunanan for the hard training,” Gonzaga said in an interview on Wednesday.
The Grade 7 student at Olongapo City National High School won the team silver at the Batang Pinoy National Finals in Puerto Princesa, Palawan last year.
“I hope I can play in the Palarong Pambansa again,” said Gonzaga, who bagged the mixed doubles bronze medal with Anthony James Cosca at the 2024 Palarong Pambansa in Cebu.
Gonzaga is a member of the Philippine team which placed fourth in the World Juniors U14 tournament in Bahrain last February.
Meanwhile, Julius Otoc defeated Gil Niere, 6-3, 6-3, to secure the boys U14 title in Digos City.
Other winners were Dhea Cua (girls U18), Maria Shan Tuyor (girls U12), Stephen Fuertes (boys U18), Iñigo Barrios (boys U16), Pete Niere (boys U12) and KC Rabino (unisex U10). (PNA)