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SDO Ilocos Sur Stallions Bolt R1AA 2026

CANDON CITY, Ilocos Sur — Decked in their signature green and white colors to thunderous applause, the Mighty Green Stallions of SDO Ilocos Sur, led a spectacular parade of athletes into the Candon City Arena as the Region 1 Athletic Association (R1AA) Meet 2026 officially kicked off with a roaring celebration of Ilocano grit and unity this April 6.

The sports festivity began earlier in the afternoon with a grand parade of delegations at 2:00PM from across Region 1 with 14 schools division-contingents, culminating in the opening program at 5:00 PM.

Afternoon of Inspiration and Tradition

The program opened with a powerful sequence of national anthem, an interfaith prayer led by a diverse group of religious leaders, which includes a priest, pastor and IP elder, reflecting the city’s rich cultural inclusivity. This was followed by hymns of Region 1, Province of Ilocos Sur and Candon City performed by the Candon City Chorale, then Ode to Candon City presented through audio-visual.

Leading the welcome for the City of Love and Care were Hon. Eric D. Singson, Mayor of Candon City, and Ms. Gemma Q. Tacuycuy, Schools Division Superintendent, SDO Candon City. Meanwhile, Hon. Kristelle G. Singson, Vice Mayor, officially commenced this year’s R1AA meet.

Adding to the festive spirit, the Candon City Performers captivated the audience with a breathtaking musical dance performance. Their routine blended traditional Ilocano movements with modern choreography, showcasing the city's vibrant artistry and serving as a high-energy tribute to the visiting delegates.

Consequently, elected leaders of the Provincial Government of Ilocos Sur shared their inspirational messages, namely: Hon. Jeremias C. Singson, Governor -Province of Ilocos Sur; Hon. Ryan Luis V. Singson, Vice Governor -Province of Ilocos Sur; and Hon. Kristine Singson-Meehan, Deputy Speaker 20th Congress and 2nd District representative of Ilocos Sur. Each delivered inspirational messages, united by a singular commitment to championing the athletic endeavors of the Ilocano youth.

Keynote Address: Elevating Regional Sports

Moreover, the Guest of Honor and Speaker was introduced by Dr. Rhoda T. Razon, Assistant Regional Director of DepEd RO1. Following her introduction, Hon. Patrick “Pato” C. Gregorio, Chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission, delivered a stirring speech emphasizing the importance of grassroots sports development.  Later, he was joined on stage by SDS Tacuycuy, ASDS Jose and the elected city and  provincial leaders for the awarding of plaque of recognition and token of appreciation. 

Torch of Excellence

The symbolic highlight of the evening was the lighting of the R1AA torch by a trio of distinguished athletes of Candon City who have brought pride to the Philippines on the international stage: Ms. Generose R. Tupasi, Silver medalist -SEA Chess Championship; Ms. Mecel Angela Gadut, Gold medalist, Chess -20th ASEAN Age Group; and Mr. Efraim H. Inigo, Bronze medalist, Duathlon -SEA Games. Hence, their presence served as source of inspiration for the thousands of student-athletes gathered in the city arena.

This was followed by the official pledges of commitment: Oath of Amateurism by Ms. Ryka Anarosette A. Abaya, Archery event -Palarong Pambansa 2025 Qualifier; Oath of Coaches by Ms. Janette T. Santiago, Chess coach; and the Oath of Officiating Officials led by Mr. Ryan E. Bantiding, Regional Sports officer-DepEd RO1.

Simultaneously, the ceremony featured the ceremonial Raising of the Banners, led by ARD Razon with the Mayor and Vice Mayor of Candon City. During this landmark tradition, the 14 Schools Division Superintendents (SDSs), accompanied by their respective ASDSs and Sports Officers, hoisted the colors of their divisions. This collective act officially signaled the presence and readiness of every contingent from across the region to compete in the week-long games. 

Spectacular Finale

Following the formal declaration of the games by ARD Razon, Assistant Regional Director of DepEd RO1, the arena was transformed into a festival of light and sound.

The evening concluded with a Unity Dance, which is a mass performance showcasing the harmony between the different school divisions followed by celebrity performance of pop star Darren Espanto, who surprised the crowd with high-energy entertainment. 

As for the grand finale, a cutting-edge drone show and a synchronized fireworks display illuminated the Candon skyline, marking a triumphant start to the regional meet.

The R1AA Meet 2026 is now officially underway, with athletes set to compete in various sporting events throughout the week, all vying for the honor of representing Region 1 in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa.

via Ma. Novena A. Sarmiento & R1AA Media Team