Leyte Roaring Lions Launch Determined Bid to Reclaim Evraa Crown in Baybay City
The Leyte Roaring Lions delegation is poised to mount a powerful campaign to recapture the Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic Association (Evraa) championship title. The weeklong regional sports competition commenced on Sunday, March 1, 2026, in Baybay City, Leyte, with high hopes riding on the local athletes.
Confidence and Guiding Principles from DepEd Leadership
Department of Education (DepEd) Leyte Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Mariza Magan expressed strong confidence in the team's capabilities. She emphasized that discipline and unity serve as the foundational principles guiding their efforts. "This year's Evraa is more than a showcase of athletic excellence; it is a celebration of discipline, resilience, teamwork, and the indomitable spirit of the Leyteño student athletes," Magan stated during the event's opening ceremonies.
She further articulated the delegation's clear objective: "With unity as our strength and excellence as our standard, we enter this competition with a clear and determined goal, which is to regain the crown and bring honor back to Leyte." Magan pointed to recent successes, including victories at the 2026 Regional Festival of Talents and Regional Schools Press Conference, as momentum builders for this athletic endeavor.
Comprehensive Support System and Acknowledgment
Dr. Magan extended heartfelt gratitude to the extensive network supporting the athletes. She thanked coaches, trainers, officials, parents, students, and all stakeholders for their unwavering support and dedication. "We thank you for your support, which has been instrumental in our preparation for this meet," she said, urging the team to base every performance on integrity and respect. She reminded everyone that "true victory reflects preparation, trust, and shared sacrifice."
The logistical and operational backbone of the delegation was managed by a team of DepEd officials. Assistant Schools Division Superintendents Atty. Calick Arrieta and Dr. Teodorico Pelinio Jr., along with Schools Governance and Operations Division Chief Dr. Gil Esplanada and Curriculum Implementation Division Chief Grace Villanueva, coordinated critical areas including training schedules, logistics, and academic support for the student-athletes.
Provincial Backing and Intensive Preparation
Financial and material support from the Leyte Provincial Government, under the leadership of Governor Jericho Petilla, significantly bolstered the team's preparations and ensured athlete welfare. This reinforcement was crucial for the delegation's intensive training regimen.
The Leyte Roaring Lions underwent a rigorous 20-day concentration training program in Kananga to hone their skills and build team cohesion. Dr. Rex Briones, education program supervisor in English and head of the division publication team, underscored the team's broader mission. He noted that the team "carries the pride of every school and community in Leyte, representing discipline in action and competing not only for medals but for the honor of Leyte and the values it stands for."
Regional Competition Scope
The 2026 Evraa Meet features spirited competition among thirteen schools divisions from across the Eastern Visayas region. The event serves as a premier platform for showcasing young athletic talent and fostering regional sports development.
