Atienza’s decision to step down from his Malacañang post came amid appeals from socio-civic youth organizations in Manila for him to help sustain the gains made by the MASCO, city hall’s sports arm, and the Inner City Development Committee.
"I have always been committed and determined to fulfill the task assigned to me and rise up to the challenge," said Atienza. "I would like to thank the President for giving me the opportunity to serve our country in my own humble way during my short stint as Presidential Assistant for Youth and Sports."