Isabela City etched a defining moment in its history on April 6, as it proudly hosted the 22nd Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Athletic Association (ZPRAA) Meet—marking its first time to host the prestigious regional event after more than two decades, and signaling its emergence as a rising hub of unity, progress, and youth empowerment.
With the theme “Championing Unity and Peace Through Sports,” the opening ceremony transformed the city into a vibrant convergence of athletic excellence, cultural pride, and regional solidarity. More than 5,000 delegations of student-athletes, coaches, and officials from across the Zamboanga Peninsula were welcomed with energy, color, and unmistakable Basileño warmth.
From the outset, the program unfolded as both spectacle and statement. The grand entrance of delegations and the highly anticipated Saludo Showcase highlighted each contingent’s identity and pride, setting the tone for a week of spirited yet respectful competition. The ceremonial entrance of colors and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem reinforced a shared sense of purpose among all participants.
At the heart of the celebration was the message of transformation and possibility.
In her welcome address, Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman reflected on the city’s journey—from a once overlooked locality to a confident and steadily progressing city capable of hosting a major regional event. She described the ZPRAA hosting as a dream once deemed impossible, now realized through unity, determination, and collective effort.
“This is more than a sporting event,” she emphasized. “This is a testament to who we are becoming as a people.”
She underscored that the games are not solely about medals, but about shaping the youth—future leaders who carry the pride and aspirations of their communities.
She also emphasized that the event is not just about competition, but about telling Isabela City’s story—one of overcoming a difficult past and rising like an athlete from adversity through hard work and collective effort, saying, “Ang kwento ng Isabela ay parang kwento ng isang nagsisimula o napag-iwanang atleta na unti-unting bumangon at nakahabol.”
Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Ma. Laarni Villanueva echoed this sentiment, welcoming delegates with optimism and calling for collaboration in ensuring a meaningful and successful celebration of sportsmanship and excellence.
Support from the provincial leadership was strongly conveyed by Governor Mujiv Hataman, who encouraged athletes to compete with integrity while embracing the deeper value of unity and shared identity. He emphasized that while winning remains important, the broader goal is to reshape perceptions of the province, stating, “Mahalaga ang medalya, pero mas mahalaga sa kabuuan sa amin ay mabago ang kinasanayang imahe ng Basilan. Dito pa lang, panalo na kami.”
As he shared, “Alam ninyo, kung mayroong masaya sa gabing ito, sigurado ako hindi lang ang inyong mayor—higit sa lahat, ako ay tunay na masaya, hindi lamang dahil inilunsad ang ZPRAA kundi dahil makasaysayan ang okasyong ito.”
He extended his sincere appreciation to the parents who entrusted their children to participate, setting aside fears and doubts in allowing them to travel and compete. He assured them that the safety, security, and well-being of every delegate remain a top priority and that the athletes will return home safely, carrying with them not only medals but also valuable experiences and cherished memories.
He also inspired the athletes—especially those from Isabela City—by reminding them that the competition is not yet over and that while the champions have yet to be determined, “hindi pa tapos ang laro, ngunit sigurado ako na tayong mga Isabeleno at Basileno ay panalo na.” He emphasized that the successful hosting of this historic and first-time ZPRAA proves that unity, trust, and perseverance can overcome challenges and bring pride to the region.
Representing the Department of Education, the keynote message was delivered by Asec Roger Masapol on behalf of Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara reaffirmed the government’s commitment to grassroots sports development—highlighting athletics as a critical platform for discipline, resilience, and nation-building among the youth.
One of the most symbolic highlights of the evening was the lighting of the Friendship Cauldron, representing the enduring spirit of unity and camaraderie among competing regions. The moment was made even more meaningful with the presentation of an audio-visual feature showcasing the ceremonial torch relay—from Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte to Isabela City, culminating in a unique swimming torch relay—symbolizing the journey of unity across land and sea.
Adding inspiration to the ceremony, Olympic medalist Eumir Felix Marcial delivered a motivating message to the young athletes, urging them to persevere, dream bigger, and strive for excellence both on and off the field.
The formal opening of the 22nd ZPRAA Qualifying Meet was officially declared by DepEd IX Officer-in-Charge Regional Director Dr. Ronelo Al Firmo, marking the commencement of the much-anticipated competitions.
The cultural heartbeat of Basilan was also on full display through the performance “Threads of Identity,” a powerful showcase of the traditions of the Tausug, Yakan, and settler communities. Featuring the Pasangan Cultural Dance Troupe and the Alab ng Haraya Dance Troupe, the performance celebrated diversity while reinforcing a unified regional identity.
Athletes, coaches, and technical officials took their solemn oaths—led by Albiya Lumbatan, Melvin Siason, and Joel Saavedra—affirming their commitment to fairness, integrity, and excellence in competition.
The ceremony concluded on a high note with a grand performance of the ZPRAA theme song, a dazzling fireworks display, and special presentations that energized the crowd and set the stage for the days ahead.
Present at the event were Zamboanga City Mayor Khymer Adan Olaso represented by Executive Assistant II Christian Olasiman, Zamboanga del Norte Governor Darel Dexter Uy, Zamboanga Sibugay Congressman Marlo Bangcoro, Vice Governor Richard Olegario along with nine Provincial Board Members and other LGU officials, Zamboanga del Sur Governor Divina Grace Yu, former Governor Victor Yu, Congressman Joseph Kim Yu, six Board Members, and other LGU officials, Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan, a Board Member and other LGU officials, along with 11 Mayors, Basilan Provincial Board Members, 101st Infantry (Three Red Arrows) Brigade BGen Fredrick Sales, PNP Provincial Director Police Col. Cerrazid Umabong, Isabela City Vice Mayor Ar-Jhemar Ajibon and Councilors.
The presence of key regional leaders—including governors, mayors, legislators, local chief executives, security officials, and education stakeholders from all over Zamboanga Peninsula—further underscored the significance of the event, not only as a sporting competition but as a unifying milestone for the entire region.
Running from April 6 to 11, the 22nd ZPRAA Meet positions Isabela City not just as a host, but as a symbol of resilience, transformation, and inclusive progress.
For Isabela City, this is more than history made—this is a bold declaration of what it has become after decades of perseverance: a city where unity thrives, youth are empowered, and excellence in governance is within reach. (Words by SJ Asakil/Photos by KJ Evardo & M. Santos, CIO)
