BY NELJOY GALIGAO
PASSI CITY, Iloilo — More than just a regional sporting event, the 2026 Western Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) Meet has become a launching pad for Passi City’s bold ambition to position itself as the region’s future sports hub, as nearly 7,000 athletes, coaches, and officials converged for the weeklong competition that opened March 17.
Hosting this year’s WVRAA is central to Passi City’s long-term development strategy, with Mayor Stephen Palmares declaring the city’s goal to become the “Sporting Capital of Western Visayas” by 2028 while leveraging the event to boost tourism, infrastructure, and economic growth.
“We want to ensure that every WVRAA delegation has the best experience of their lives while in Passi City,” Palmares said, underscoring the city’s push to deliver top-tier facilities and organization.
“Our preparations go well beyond these games; they are part of a broader strategy aimed at boosting local tourism, economic growth, and community well-being,” he added.
The WVRAA Meet, themed “Stronger Champions, Greater Heights,” gathered delegations from Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo Province, Iloilo City, Roxas City, and host Passi City, each competing across multiple sporting disciplines from March 17 to 22.
While the spotlight is on competition, national education officials stressed that the event’s deeper value lies in shaping the character of young athletes.
“Sports teaches lessons that no classroom can impart — it instills discipline, teamwork, and resilience, enabling individuals to rise after setbacks,” said Department of Education undersecretary Peter Irving Corvera.
“This is about more than just collecting medals and trophies; this is a celebration of character,” he added.
Corvera also relayed the vision of Education Secretary Sonny Angara, emphasizing that sports play a crucial role in leadership formation and personal development among the youth.
“Whether it’s NIR (Negros Island Region) or Western Visayas, what matters most is that our young athletes continue to grow stronger and better for the country. In the end, we are all part of the same team—Team Philippines,” he said.
He urged athletes to value integrity and discipline over mere victory.
“You didn’t arrive here by mere chance. Your unwavering dedication and hard work have paved the way for this moment… Remember, while winning is important, your character is what truly defines you. The greatest victory is not merely in defeating another athlete, but in conquering challenges within yourselves.”
The opening ceremony featured a parade of delegations in their respective colors, symbolizing regional pride and unity, setting the tone for a week of competition anchored not only on athletic excellence but also on shared aspirations./PN
