GMA to RP bets: It’s about friendship

President Arroyo urged the Philippine athletes to do their best for themselves and country in the Athens Olympics that opened yesterday.

"Let your friendship and goodwill ring out in the Games, reach the hearts of your competitors and seal our name as a nation ready to compete not only in the world of sports but in the larger world of human excellence and survival," the President said in her message to the 16 athletes competing in Athens.

The President emphasized that how the athletes would wage battle to the best of their abilities is more important than winning.

The President’s message in full:

"Mga Kababayan,

"I am proud of you and I look forward to the feats you will accomplish in the Games.

"The Olympics is symbolic of the oneness of humankind in keeping the values of solidarity, friendship and understanding. Knowing these values makes us fight to win and be magnanimous in victory and be proud even in defeat.

"Hindi ang pagkapanalo ang mahalaga, kundi ang larong inilaban ng husto.

"Taglay ninyo ang kahusayan ng mga Pilipino na nasa iba’t ibang panig ng daigdig upang maghanap ng mga oportunidad. Dapat kayong mapagmatatag na taglay ang layunin ng isang bansang nagmamalasakit na humaharap sa mga pagsubok.

"Let your friendship and goodwill ring out in the Games, reach the hearts of your competitors and seal our name as a nation ready to compete not only in the world of sports but in the larger world of human excellence and survival.

"Mabuhay and God bless."