Davao Region Aims for Top Two in Palarong Pambansa Despite Rainy Davraa Opening
Despite a heavy downpour, 9,801 delegates enthusiastically opened the 2026 Davao Regional Athletics Association (Davraa) Meet on Sunday, as Davao Region set its ambitious sights on securing a top-two finish in the upcoming 2026 Palarong Pambansa. The rain did little to dampen spirits as 11 delegations paraded at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex, showcasing remarkable sportsmanship and camaraderie under the stormy skies.
Torch Lighting and Ceremonial Start
Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib formally lit the torch and passed it to the athletes, sparking the start of the competition amid the persistent showers. Leading the Davraa torch relay were the region's top student-athletes, including gold and bronze medalists from the 2025 Palarong Pambansa. Tagum City's Elaiza Jane E. Irog-Irog, the 2025 Palarong Pambansa Taekwondo-Kyorogi gold medalist, then lit the 2026 Davraa athletic cauldron, officially signaling the commencement of the games.
Participants and guests enjoyed a vibrant fire dance performance by Koryo Mindanao, followed by an extravagant fireworks display that lit up the rainy evening, adding a festive atmosphere to the event.
Eyes on Palaro Second Place
After placing fourth in last year's Palarong Pambansa, just one gold medal shy of third place, Department of Education (DepEd) Davao regional director Allan G. Farnazo announced that the region is aiming significantly higher this year. "The number of gold medals won by Davao City increased by 13.62 percent in 2025 compared to 2024," Farnazo noted. Of the region's 43 golds last year, 16 came from Davao City alone.
He encouraged every athlete to push harder while assuring them of continued support. "This forecast is not only based on potential but on challenging the strength of Davao Region and raising the bar of performance higher," he emphasized, highlighting the region's determination to improve its standing.
Bigger and Better 2026 Davraa
The Provincial Government of Davao del Norte, in partnership with Tagum City, once again hosted the Davraa Meet. Governor Jubahib expressed that the province is honored to stage the event and is already prepared to host again in 2027. "Through sports, the younger generation can build skills, resilience, and character while shaping the future," he stated, underscoring the importance of athletic development.
Provincial Administrator Atty. Ralph Dela Cruz revealed that P5 million from the Special Education Fund (SEF) was allocated for the games, ensuring the same high-quality hosting as last year and facilitating smooth operations despite the challenging weather conditions.
Safety and Security Measures
Despite the heavy rainfall caused by the shear line and easterlies, comprehensive safety and security measures were firmly in place. About 250 police personnel were deployed to playing venues and billeting quarters, with additional support from the Philippine Army and other security units to ensure the well-being of all participants.
Giovanni I. Gulanes of the Provincial Sports and Youth Development Office confirmed that Governor Jubahib prioritized athlete safety, coordinating closely with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and activating the Incident Command System to manage any emergencies effectively.
Event Details and Participation
A total of 9,108 delegates are actively participating in the 2026 Davraa Meet, including:
- 5,963 athletes
- 1,108 coaches
- 235 female athlete chaperones
- 1,802 officials and committee members
The games will run from February 23 to 28 across 13 schools in Tagum City, providing a platform for young athletes to compete and showcase their talents in various sports disciplines.
