Isabela City proudly opened the 20th Isabela City Division Athletic Association (ICDAA) Meet with a vibrant and momentous ceremony that brought together athletes, coaches, school heads, government officials, and supporters from across the city, with the theme, “Championing Unity and Discipline Through Sports”, September 5, at the Isabela City Grandstand.
The program began with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, followed by an Invocation led by Prof. Alzad T. Sattar, Federated PTA President, and Pastor Ronald S. Paulino of the United Evangelical Church of Isabela (UECI). This was succeeded by heartfelt renditions of the Isabela City Hymn and the Isabela City Division Hymn performed by the Basilan National High School Choir.
Inspiring welcome messages were delivered by Dr. Ma. Laarni T. Villanueva, EdD, CESO VI, setting an optimistic tone for a spirited and sportsmanlike competition.
Vice Mayor AR-Jhemar K. Ajibon also shared a message highlighting the values of camaraderie and good sportsmanship, joined by City Councilor Abner Rodriguez.
Representing the Provincial Governor Mujiv Hataman, Board Member District 1 Ahmed Ibn Djaliv T. Hataman delivered the keynote address, challenging athletes to strive for personal growth and excellence, “Let’s be good sportsmen and let’s show the kind of athletics Isabela City is capable of”, he added.
A symbolic hoisting of banners — including the ICDAA Banner, Division Banner, LGU Banner, and Delegation Banners — showcased unity and pride among participating schools and delegations.
The lighting of the torch officially marked the start of the games, followed by the Athletes’ Oath of Amateurism and the Oath of Technical Officials, underscoring fairness and integrity in the competition.
The ceremony also recognized the Palarong Pambansa 2025 Qualifiers, including Albiya C. Lumbatan (Bronze Medalist, Pencak Silat) and the MNHS Baseball Team, serving as an inspiration to all participating athletes.
The program was also graced by OIC-ASDS Dr. Lyna H. Basri, CID Chief Dr. Henry R. Tura, SGOD Chief Eduardo G. Gulang, Division Sports Officer Arnel Hajan, Education Program Supervisors, District Supervisors, School Heads, and the very supportive parents.
The event culminated with the formal declaration of the opening of the 20th ICDAA Meet, highlighted by a unity dance that symbolized sportsmanship and camaraderie among the Isabeleño youth.
This year’s ICDAA Meet stands as a testament to Isabela City’s commitment to nurturing athletic talent, fostering discipline, and promoting unity. Beyond competition, the event reflects the city’s shared goal of building a stronger, healthier, and more united community. (Words by KJ Lim/Photos by C. Digon, IsaTV)
