TACLOBAN CITY — As the Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic Association (EVRAA) 2026 officially kicks off in Baybay City on Sunday, March 1, local governments across the region have mobilized to send off their student-athletes with full support, equipment, and encouragement, underscoring the growing emphasis on grassroots sports development.
On February 26, Calbayog City’s delegation, the Calbayog Supersonics, experienced a minor road incident en route to Baybay.
While traveling in convoy through Purok 5, Barangay Payao, Catbalogan City, one of their buses braked suddenly, causing a black sedan to be sandwiched between two vehicles. Fortunately, only the sedan driver sustained minor injuries, and no athletes were hurt.
After resting and changing vehicles, the delegation safely arrived at Gabas Integrated School in Baybay City, where they were welcomed with performances by the school’s drum and lyre corps and a dance presentation, followed by a meal for the weary athletes.
Prior to departure, Vice Mayor Rex Daguman led the send-off, distributing competition uniforms and providing P500 financial assistance to each of the city’s 610 student-athletes, totaling P310,000.
He reminded the young athletes that EVRAA is not just about winning medals but also about showcasing integrity, sportsmanship, and discipline. Members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod were also present to extend their support.
Meanwhile, Catbalogan City formally sent off its 640-strong delegation, the Katbalaugan Warriors, during the “Panalipod” ceremony, which included a Holy Mass and a short program.
City officials presented athletes with complete competition kits, including uniforms, duffel bags, shoes, toiletries, umbrellas, IDs, tumblers, and other essential materials.
Mayor Dexter Uy emphasized that the city’s investments in sports aim to benefit the athletes and secure their future opportunities. He said, “This is not just for us, but for you and your future.” Schools Division Superintendent Carmela Tamayo and SGOD Chief Dr. Maribel Ruedas echoed the message, urging athletes to uphold discipline, respect, and integrity on and off the playing fields.
At the same time, Ormoc City, defending EVRAA champions since 2018, sent off 655 student-athletes, the Ormoc Siglaro Elites, at the Ormoc City Superdome.
Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez distributed uniforms and playing shoes while reminding athletes that they carry the city’s pride and legacy of excellence. The send-off included a Holy Mass to bless the athletes for safety, strength, and success. City Vice Mayor Leo Carmelo Locsin Jr., SP members, and youth leaders were present to show full support.
The EVRAA Meet 2026 brings together top student-athletes from 13 school divisions across Eastern Visayas to compete in various sporting events, serving as a qualifier for the Palarong Pambansa in Agusan del Sur.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
