Davao City Durians Kick Off Title Defense at 2026 Davraa Meet
The powerhouse Davao City Durians have officially launched their title defense as the 2026 Davraa Meet hostilities commenced on Monday, February 23, across various venues in Davao del Norte. With 11 divisions fielding thousands of determined athletes, the competition is set to be intense as challengers aim to unseat the reigning champions.
Opening Ceremonies and Delegation Details
The opening ceremonies were ongoing as of Sunday press time at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex, where over 9,000 delegates are expected to participate. This regional meet brings together top athletic talent from across the area, showcasing a fierce battle for supremacy.
Davao City Durians' Training and Goals
Department of Education (DepEd) Davao City Division sports officer Deony Ferolino highlighted that the 1,100-strong delegation completed a rigorous 30-day in-house training camp. This program focused on sharpening discipline, teamwork, and mental toughness, preparing the athletes for the challenges ahead.
"The Davao Durians aim to surpass 200 gold medals in the meet," Ferolino stated. "Beyond the medal count, we aspire to showcase sportsmanship, unity, and excellence, bringing pride to Davao City and demonstrating the true spirit of competitive athletics." He added that the team lives by a familiar mantra: "In Davao City, the best is here—not only in talent but in character."
The Durians remain strongest in key sports such as swimming, volleyball, wushu, pencak silat, dancesport, and basketball. They are also continuing to build depth in other disciplines including baseball, football, badminton, archery, and athletics, ensuring a well-rounded competitive edge.
Challengers from Other Divisions
The 934-member DavNor Pioneers are aiming to improve on last year's runner-up finish. Division sports officer Arnel Labasan emphasized that structured in-house training has sharpened both skills and mindset. "It builds discipline, teamwork, and mental readiness," he said. Their medal bid is anchored in volleyball, athletics, dancesport, swimming, and boxing.
From Davao de Oro, the 734-strong Davao de Oro Thunderbolts trained under a centralized program backed by local leaders. Training director Ruben Reponte noted that organized sessions and volunteer coaches have significantly improved readiness. "Our athletes improved technically and mentally," he explained, adding that they aim for a second-place finish and more qualifiers to the Palarong Pambansa, with football, taekwondo, and track leading their charge.
The DavSur Cobras of Davao del Sur bring 853 athletes who have been molded through intensive training and academic support. Division sports officer Joveth Tubiano stated that the goal is a Top 5 finish and more national qualifiers while maintaining classroom performance. "We train champions in sport and in school," he affirmed.
Event Coverage and Sponsorships
SunStar Davao's special coverage of the 2026 Davraa Meet is made possible by its partnership with the DepEd Davao Region and the provincial government of Davao del Norte. Additional sponsors include the provincial governments of Davao de Oro and Davao del Sur, as well as the city government of Panabo, ensuring comprehensive support for this major sporting event.
