TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte — Braving a light downpour, the Davao Regional Athletic Association (Davraa) 2025 officially opened on Sunday, March 9, at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism City Complex, with Governor Edwin Jubahib emphasizing sports as a tool for resilience, respect, and unity.
Jubahib, who readily accepted the opportunity to host the Davraa Meet 2025, underscored the province’s commitment to developing young athletes and elevating the Davao Region’s standing in national and international competitions.
"We stand as one in elevating region 11 into greater heights not just in the Palarong Pambansa but even on the international stage," he said.
Palaro target
Allan Farnazo, regional director of the Department of Education (DepED)-Davao Region, revealed that they are aiming to place second in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa 2025. He said that they are confident that the region would be able to make it to the top three in the national competition.
"We are increasing our target for medals, lalaban tayo doon. Kaso we have NCR, Calabarzon, Western Visayas, Davao Region. Following those powerhouse regions, I know alam mo na bigatin na ang ating region," he said.
Farnazo added that knocking out one powerhouse region from the top three is challenging and exciting. He said that they are banking on the performance of the students in this year's regional meet.
Rebonfamil R. Baguio, assistant regional director of DepEd-Davao, said in his message that Davraa is a testament to everyone's collaboration and it is a cause for celebration. He said that the event is a unifying force rather than a cause for division in the region.
"Continue the greatness and keep rising athletang Dabawenyo," he said.
Meanwhile, DepEd Undersecretary Rowena Candice M. Ruiz, representing Secretary Sonny Angara, underscored the importance of sports in holistic education. She noted that training, hard work, and determination shape athletic skills and character.
Torch lighting
A proud moment of the opening ceremony was the torch relay, featuring standout athletes from across the region, including Palarong Pambansa medalists: Jefferson V. Amaya (boxing, Davao del Norte),
Samantha Claire D. Jamotillo (gymnastics, Tagum City), Eathan Razy T. Fujita (arnis, Davao City),
Michael Josh P. Macalisang (arnis, Davao de Oro), Kent John S. Gabia (billiards, Davao del Sur),
Presrioland Jay F. Ariate (taekwondo, Davao Occidental), Jessica Leah P. Losentes (athletics, Davao Oriental), Stephen R. Fuertes (tennis, Digos City), James B. Aredidon (boxing, Igacos), Minerva Kate M. Uyan (taekwondo, Mati City), Joe Rayne M. Lelis (gymnastics, Panabo City).
Jubahib, alongside these Palaro medalists, ignited the Davraa 2025 cauldron, officially marking the start of the regional games.
Bigger Davraa
With a ₱4.5 million budget allocation—₱3.5 million higher than the 2023 edition—the provincial government has significantly invested in facility upgrades, maintenance, and athlete support.
"We are committed to elevating the experience for athletes, coaches, and spectators alike," said provincial administrator Atty. Ralph Dela Cruz.
This year’s Davraa gathers 5,904 athletes—1,906 in elementary and 3,998 in secondary levels—competing in various sports disciplines.
Security measures
To ensure safety throughout the event, the Davao del Norte Police Provincial Office has deployed 352 personnel, with 242 officers assigned daily across seven checkpoints, 12 billeting areas, and 17 playing venues.
Authorities assured the public that security remains a top priority, ensuring a safe and successful regional meet. RGP