HOUSE Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Monday lauded 13-year-old Chrisia Mae Tajarros of Tanauan, Leyte, for winning the first gold medal of the 2025 Palarong Pambansa, calling her victory a story of redemption, perseverance, and unshakable determination.

Tajarros, a student at Tanauan National High School and a trainee at the Leyte Sports Academy, clinched the gold in the girls’ 3,000-meter run, making a strong comeback after finishing second in the same event last year.

“I join the entire province of Leyte and the people of Eastern Visayas in proudly congratulating Chrisia Mae Tajarros,” Speaker Romualdez said in an official statement.

“Her victory in the 3,000-meter run is a story of redemption, perseverance, and unshakable determination.”

Romualdez emphasized that Tajarros’ win exemplifies the power of grassroots sports development and the potential of young Filipino athletes.

“Her success is a testament to what we can achieve when we invest in our young athletes,” he added.

Describing her as the pride of Leyte and the nation, Romualdez said her achievement is not just about medals—but about courage, discipline, and the power of never giving up.

“On behalf of the House of Representatives and the people of the First District of Leyte, I salute you, Chrisia Mae. May this be the first of many more victories in your journey. Mabuhay ka,” the Speaker concluded.

Tajarros’ gold medal marks a strong start for Eastern Visayas in the national games, setting an inspiring tone for the region’s athletes and supporters.