Phoebe Caluza: Baguio’s bemedalled archer in Batang Pinoy 2024

For Phoebe Caluza, archery is not only a sport where one shoots arrows but is more importantly a path for a greater purpose.She seized the gold medal for the Girls Compound Individual (17 years old) category for 2nd distance and double for archery, at the Batang Pinoy 2024 in Puerto Prinsesa, Palawan.

Phoebe said winning both the gold and silver medals was one of her biggest achievements. “I felt genuinely happy because it was one of my biggest achievements. I knew I trained hard for it, so winning it felt like all my efforts finally paid off,” she stated.

Her story in archery goes way back to Grade 2, when she would join her seniors for casual training. This simple act made her love the sport, leading her to compete in 2016 and again in 2022.Archery is more than just a sport, but her passion, Phoebe revealed, and it’s where she feels the most focused, challenged, and fulfilled.

The sport taught her discipline, patience, and resilience and also pushed her to dream big and aim higher, shaping who she is today.

Her commitment to archery does not hinder her studies because for her, time management is important, so Phoebe makes sure to finish schoolwork before training, even when she has free time.

She emphasizes the importance of taking breaks to avoid burning out, especially since she is graduating this school year.

Phoebe admits that despite being an athlete for a long time, she still feels pressured and easily distracted, which she is currently working on.

Moreover, being an archer requires expensive equipment, and she is thankful to her parents for their wholehearted support.

As she is presently competing in Marikina for another national competition, her will to pursue archery extends to those who also want to try it.

“Don’t be afraid to start, even if you feel like you’re not good enough yet. Everyone begins somewhere. Be patient, trust the process, and enjoy every small improvement,” Phoebe said.

Archery teaches athletes and non-athletes alike, the virtues of discipline, focus, and confidence. – Jaeda Pad-eng, PIO intern / Gaby Keith