The 2026 Central Visayas Regional Athletics Association (CViRAA) Meet launched on March 22 at the Teodoro “Doring” Mendiola Sr. Sports Field and Track Oval, uniting 12 delegations in an energetic showcase of athletic excellence, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
The ceremony opened with soulful performances from City of Naga Integrated Center for Science, Technology, Culture and Arts (CNISTCA) students. They led the singing of the National Anthem, a doxology, and several hymns, including Bagong Pilipinas, DepEd Region VII, Sugbo, and the Naga hymn. Their presentation created a solemn, uplifting tone. Next, teachers from the City of Naga DepEd division performed a vibrant welcome dance to “Welcome to Naga,” a song that showcases the city’s warmth and hospitality.
Warm Nagahanon Welcome
Shortly after, Hon. Clint Isidro Chiong delivered the welcome message on behalf of City Mayor Valdemar M. Chiong. Speaking on behalf of the Local Government Unit (LGU), he expressed gratitude for hosting the regional meet for the third time and shared that the city is honored and excited for the weeklong event. He encouraged athletes to forge new friendships and noted that simply participating in the CViRAA Meet is a meaningful accomplishment.
Following Hon. Chiong’s message, Dr. Ronald G. Gutay , Schools Division Superintendent of the City of Naga Division, welcomed all 12 delegations. Dr. Gutay praised the collective effort and enthusiasm shown by the participants, underscoring the unity and commitment evident among the competing divisions. He also acknowledged the presence and support of local government officials and school division superintendents from across the region, from Cebu Province to Toledo City.
Championship Character
Cebu Province Governor Pamela Baricuatro took the stage to emphasize that student-athletes are at the heart of the competition. Commending their dedication and discipline, she noted that true victory goes beyond podium finishes, highlighting fair play, respect, integrity, and discipline as the real markers of championship character.
Reaffirming the province’s steadfast support, Governor Baricuatro highlighted Cebu’s continuing investment in programs that foster the growth and development of young athletes. She encouraged participants to embrace the spirit of competition with honor and take pride in representing their schools and communities.
Symbols of Unity
The ceremony then moved to its most symbolic tradition: the banner raising. Regarded as the ceremonial spark of unity, the activity officially set the tone for the meet. Leading the ritual was Dr. Salustiano T. Jimenez , Regional Director of DepEd Region VII, alongside the twelve Schools Division Superintendents. The sight of the banners rising across the field reflected a shared commitment to fair play.
In his keynote address, Dr. Jimenez described sports as a “classroom without walls” where young athletes learn perseverance, humility, and courage. He reminded the athletes that great champions often begin as ordinary dreamers, urging them to carry forward the lessons they gain during the week.
The Final Spark
Atty. Leviticus M. Barazon, Jr. , Assistant Schools Division Superintendent, acknowledged the vital partnership between the LGU and DepEd that brought the event to fruition. This was followed by the Oath of Sportsmanship led by taekwondo athlete Love Rohan Alferez and the Oath of Coaches and Technical Officials headed by Mr. Tomas Pastor.
The lighting of the torch marked the official opening of the 2026 CViRAA Meet. As the ceremony drew to a close, the Nagahanon dancers performed the Dagitab Dance, showcasing Naga City’s cultural pride, culminating in a vibrant fireworks display that illuminated the night sky.
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