FOR the second time around, Apayao province is set to host the annual Cordillera Administrative Region Athletic Association (Caraa) next year.

Georaloy Palao-ay, information officer of the Department of Education (DepEd) in the Cordillera, said Apayao has already signified its intent to host the annual sporting event gathering close to 5,000 athletes and officials from six provinces and one city.

Palao-ay added although Apayao has filed its intent, DepEd will still await the letter coming from the provincial government until July 13 to finalize their hosting.

Apayao first hosted Caraa in 2013 and hopes to duplicate the success of hosting the regional meet with its newly-constructed BGV Memorial Sports Center that includes an Olympic size swimming pool.

The DepEd representative said among the requirements is the capability and willingness of the host local government unit to shoulder expenses necessary for the hosting of the activity, including construction and renovation of sports facilities, billeting and other infrastructure requirements to meet standards, also, peace and order situation must be conducive for the activity and basic services like medical, communications even electric and water supply are available.

Palao-ay added the early choosing of host it is a win-win situation for both the participants and the province or city so they can put up needed or improve their facilities and schools identified for billeting can likewise make necessary preparations.

“We are hoping they will also have a rubberized track oval just like in Abra and Baguio City, said Palao-ay. “Awarding the hosting rights this early can give us more time for constructions and other preparations before February next year.”

Apayao Governor Elias Bulut Jr. has been hoping to host again Caraa since last year. (Roderick Osis)