Ilocos Norte's swimmer the 8th ulitmate Pinoy Sports Idol

Charisma and talent did the trick for swimmer Mark Joseph Paderon, 2nd year high school student from Ilocos Norte, proclaimed as the new ultimate Pinoy Sports Idol at the awarding ceremonies for the 8th season of Pinoy Sports Idols held at the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) Paranaque branch last March 24.

Paderon defeated arnis player Nicko Bhara of Cagayan de Oro and soccer champion Jay-R de Jesus of Tuloy sa Don Bosco after garnering the highest number of points ushered from the viewer's text votes and judges' decision.

"It's okay to loose in sports as long as you loose like a champion" said the young Paderon showing his exceptional love of sports and immeasurable passion for winning. "I'm offering this award first of all, to God, to my family and to my inspiration."

The title gave Paderon full scholarship grant in any university of his choice and a chance to represent the country in an international sporting event, all provided by PAGCOR.

The PAGCOR Paranaque branch manager Valerio Santos, also congratulated the top three finalists for Pinoy Sports Idols by highlighting the importance of education and sports in gearing the youth towards a better future.

PAGCOR and Pinoy Sports Idols, hosted by TV Icon and taekwondo champion John Paul "Japoy" Lizardo and produced by Timeline Digital Productions, also awarded Bhara and de Jesus the same scholarship grant for being among the top three candidates from the twelve who also vied for the title.

"The Team PSI"

to Pinoy Sports Idols blogger