
RAIN showers failed to dampen the unstoppable Davao City Durians as they dominated the Davao Region Athletic Association (Davraa) Meet 2025, clinching a record-breaking 197 gold medals, 102 silvers, and 87 bronzes. The competition wrapped up on March 15 at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex in Tagum City.
This year’s haul exceeded the 180-gold target set by Department of Education (DepEd) Davao City Superintendent Reynante Solitario, smashing the city’s previous record of 165 golds, 127 silvers, and 113 bronzes in 2024.
During the Durians’ victory dinner on March 14, Solitario hailed the athletes for their unwavering dedication, calling their journey to the championship a testament to their discipline, sacrifice, and passion.
"Each gold, silver, and bronze medal, each point scored, each moment of perseverance" brought them to the historic victory.
Davao del Norte secured second place with 55 golds, 60 silvers, and 86 bronzes, followed by Tagum City in third with a 44-60-48 medal haul. Davao de Oro placed fourth (30-56-71), while Digos City ranked fifth (22-28-46). Panabo City took sixth (18-36-33), Davao del Sur seventh (16-24-40), and Davao Occidental eighth (14-18-38). Mati City finished ninth (12-10-16), Davao Oriental 10th (7-14-19), and the Island Garden City of Samal rounded out the standings in last place (1-4-11).
Team effort
Solitario extended his gratitude to the coaches and trainers, recognizing their mentorship in shaping the young athletes, instilling discipline, and preparing them for life beyond the competition.
"Your guidance and mentorship have shaped these young warriors. You have instilled in them the values of discipline and excellence, preparing them not just for competition but for life itself. Your sacrifices, late nights, and relentless drive have paved the way for this success.," he added.
He also praised the parents and families for their unwavering support, emphasizing their role as the foundation of the athletes’ success. "Every cheer, every comforting word, and every sacrifice you have made has contributed to this glorious achievement," he added.
The local government of Davao City, along with medical teams, officials, coordinators, and technical staff, also received commendation for ensuring that the athletes could focus solely on their performance.
Solitario said, "This victory is just as much yours as theirs. Without your continuous support, none of this would have been possible."
On winning and losing
Solitario reminded athletes that the journey does not end here—whether they stood on the podium or fell short of a medal.
He addressed those who did not secure wins, urging them to see defeat not as a failure but as a stepping stone to future success.
"Every drop of sweat, every struggle, and every lesson learned in this competition has made you stronger," Solitario said. "You have gained experience, resilience, and the drive to come back even stronger. Keep your heads high, keep training, and your moment will come. The Davao Durians are proud of every one of you."
Solitario emphasized that the spirit of Dabawenyo Disiplinado was evident throughout the competition, with athletes showcasing not only their skills but also their unwavering discipline, commitment, and heart. He commended their relentless determination, stating that their performance was a true testament to the values that define a Dabawenyo athlete.
As the Davraa Meet 2025 concluded, he urged the Davao City Durians to set their sights on the Palarong Pambansa, reminding them that their journey was far from over. He encouraged them to keep striving for greatness, reinforcing that their hard work and dedication must continue as they prepare for the national stage.