Carys Esther Navalta, a nine-year-old gymnast from Dagupan City brought home three medals in gymnastics during her first-ever appearance at the 2025 Palarong Pambansa held in Ilocos Norte.

She was the youngest athlete to represent Region 1 in the games.

Esther won a silver medal in the single bar, and two bronze medals — one in the vault apparatus and another in the balance beam.

“Thank you sa lahat ng sumuporta sa akin,” Esther said.

Her mother, Eileen Navalta, shared how proud their family was of her achievement.

“Napakasaya po namin kasi naibigay niya ‘yung pangako niya na ibibigay ‘yung best niya,” she said.

Esther wasn’t the only athlete from Dagupan to win big. Three other students also earned medals:

Mark Tyrone Reyes took home a silver medal in men’s gymnastics.

Jana Leah Juguilon won a bronze medal in taekwondo.

Crishnea Cielo Estrada grabbed a silver in swimming.

“Kinakalma sarili ko para ‘di kabahan,” Mark said.

“Tiwala lang po sa sarili,” Jana said.

“Palaging nagti-training at sipag lang po,” Cielo added.

The Dagupan City government said it will continue to support local athletes as they train for more competitions.

“Gusto ulit nating iangat ang Dagupan City sa larangan ng sports,” Finnela Sim, Dagupan City Sports Development Officer IV, said.

Even after the Palaro, training continues for these young athletes.