ILOILO – This province stamped its dominance in regional sports after emerging as overall champion in the Western Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) Meet 2026 in Passi City, with Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. assuring cash incentives for medal-winning athletes, coaches, and support staff.
Defensor congratulated the Iloilo delegation for its commanding performance, crediting a broad support system that fueled the province’s success across multiple categories.
The governor emphasized that the victory reflects not just athletic excellence but the province’s sustained investment in holistic education through sports development.
“Thank you very much for job well done. But again, more than the winning, ano siling ko sang nag-open kita? WVRAA and sports is part of a comprehensive education system naton, ang Bulig Eskwela sa Pagbasa (BES Basa) Program. We are investing resources and time sa sports because it completes the development of our learners,” Defensor said in an interview with members of the media.
He confirmed that all medalists will receive financial incentives in accordance with Provincial Ordinance No. 2020-217, which grants rewards and recognition to provincial athletes and their support teams.
Under the ordinance, athletes will receive P5,000 for gold, P3,000 for silver, and P2,000 for bronze medals.
Coaches will receive the same amounts, while assistant coaches will receive up to P3,000 for gold, P2,500 for silver, and P2,000 for bronze.
Trainers will also receive up to P5,000 for gold, P3,000 for silver, and P2,000 for bronze, while chaperones will receive up to P2,000, P1,500, and P1,000, respectively.
Iloilo dominated the competition, topping the overall standings and securing championships in the elementary, secondary, and paragames categories.
In the overall tally, Iloilo Giants (SDO Iloilo) finished as champion, followed by Urban Blaze (SDO Iloilo City) as first runner-up and Mighty Maroons (SDO Aklan) as second runner-up.
In the elementary division, Iloilo Giants again took the top spot, followed by Urban Blaze and Red Sprinters (SDO Antique).
In the secondary division, Iloilo Giants led once more, with Urban Blaze in second place and Mighty Maroons in third.
In the paragames category, Iloilo Giants completed a clean sweep, with Golden Warriors (SDO Capiz) placing second and Mighty Maroons finishing third./PN
