Historic 22nd ZPRAA Meet Launches in Isabela City with Over 5,000 Participants
The 22nd Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Athletic Association (ZPRAA) meet commenced on Monday, April 6, 2026, in a groundbreaking event hosted for the first time ever in Isabela City, the capital of Basilan province. This prestigious regional sports competition has drawn over 5,000 delegates from across the Zamboanga Peninsula, showcasing athletic talent and fostering unity through sports.
Colorful Opening Ceremonies and Fluvial Parade
The ZPRAA meet kicked off with a vibrant and energetic parade starting at 4 p.m., featuring contingents from all participating regions. Prior to this main event, a unique fluvial parade took place at 2 p.m. along the scenic Malamawi Channel, with all athletic delegations joining in the water-based procession. These opening activities set a festive and collaborative tone for the week-long competition.
Extensive Preparations and Facility Upgrades
Isabela City Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman emphasized the city's comprehensive efforts to prepare for hosting ZPRAA 2026. In a press conference, she stated, "Upon assessment, we saw that we can do it, Isabela City can host ZPRA." The city mobilized all available resources, including significant manpower, to oversee the construction and improvement of necessary sports facilities.
Key infrastructure projects included:
- A newly constructed standard-sized swimming pool, based on recommendations from technical officials.
- Renovations and upgrades to schools serving as billeting areas for the seven athletic delegations.
- Overall enhancements to ensure the event meets regional athletic standards.
Participating Delegations and Demographic Highlights
The athletic delegations competing in ZPRAA 2026 represent a diverse array of regions:
- Zamboanga del Sur
- Isabela City
- Sulu
- Zamboanga del Norte, Dipolog, and Dapitan (ZANDIDAA)
- Zamboanga City
- Pagadian City
- Zamboanga Sibugay
Dr. Gregorio Cyrus Elejorde, Department of Education (DepEd)-Zamboanga Peninsula assistant regional director, confirmed the total delegate count exceeds 5,000. The largest contingent is Zamboanga City with 1,086 delegates, followed closely by Zamboanga del Sur with 953 participants.
Economic and Tourism Boost for Basilan
Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman highlighted the significant benefits of hosting ZPRAA 2026 for Isabela City and the broader province. He remarked, "The hosting of ZPRAA is a big win for us. Even if others become champions, we are already winners now." The event is expected to provide a substantial boost to the local economy and enhance tourism visibility for the region.
Governor Hataman emphasized that this hosting opportunity improves the image of Isabela City and Basilan province, showcasing their capabilities and hospitality on a regional stage. The theme "Championing Unity and Peace Through Sports" underscores the event's broader social and community goals.
The ZPRAA 2026 meet will continue through Saturday, April 11, featuring various athletic competitions and cultural exchanges. This historic gathering not only promotes sports excellence but also strengthens regional ties and highlights the growth and development of Isabela City as a capable host for major events.
