Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama, accompanied by his wife Malou Rama and other officials, danced during the finale performance of the declaration of the opening of the CVRAA Meet 2024. | CDN Photo/ Pia Piquero
CEBU CITY, Philippines – The Central Visayas Regional Athletic Association (CVIRAA) 2024, the grandest sports competition in the region, kicked off in Cebu City on May 4, 2024.
Held at the South Road Properties (SRP), where the Philippines’ biggest festival, the Sinulog Ritual Showdown 2024, took place, Cebu City reclaimed its pride as it hosted this year’s CVRAA after 10 years.
“[The CVRAA opening] was spectacular. We are just so happy because this was the prelude of what’s to come two months from now, the Palarong Pambansa here in Region 7. I am so happy,” said Cebu City Sports Commissioner John Pages.
Cebu City is also set to host the Palarong Pambansa 2024 in July.
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CVIRAA delegates treated to “Sinulog-themed” opening ceremony
The opening of the CVIRAA 2024 meet, attended by over 12,000 delegates from the 20 school divisions in Central Visayas, was a spectacular display of unity and athleticism.
The event started with an opening parade, where each division showcased its unique colors and outfits, ranging from light to dark hues.
Leading the parade were the Girls Scouts and Boys Scouts, resplendent in their iconic complete scout uniforms, proudly carrying the Philippine flag as they walked in perfect harmony.
Following the scouts were the representatives from each school division, each displaying their distinctive attire. Carcar City sported sleeveless white jerseys paired with shorts, while the City of Bogo stood out in green and yellow long-sleeved jerseys and pants.
The Cebu Province contingent wore long-sleeved fountain blue tops with accents of light yellow. Danao City chose warm-toned yellow tops with hoods, complemented by black pants, which created a striking visual contrast.
Lapu-Lapu City opted for short-sleeved jerseys in a deep shade of purple with subtle blue undertones, paired with pants in a matching hue.
Meanwhile, Mandaue City donned long-sleeved jerseys in dark navy blue, accented with a muted shade of yellow.
CVIRAA athletes excited
As the parade progressed, the excitement and energy of the participants electrified the atmosphere. The cheers from the crowd set the stage for an exciting and memorable CVRAA meet.
The opening ceremony of the CVRAA was further elevated by captivating performances from various dance groups and schools, all adorned in shimmering silver outfits. With synchronized movements and infectious energy, they brought to life the theme of this year’s Sinulog sa Sugbo: “One Beat. One Dance. One Vision.”
As the dancers gracefully moved to the rhythm, a breathtaking three-minute fireworks display lit up the night sky, adding a touch of magic to the event.
In an interview with CDN Digital, Josephine Dinal, a teacher and coach of the dancesport team from the Division of Bohol, expressed her awe at the opening program.
She shared her appreciation for the warm hospitality they received and mentioned how they felt accommodated during their stay at Abellana National High School, with no issues encountered so far.
“Amoang expectation aside nga unta makadaog mi, ma successful gyud ang event. Bongga kaayo [ang pag host sa Cebu City]. Production pa lang daan to technical, nice kaayo,” she said.
Cebu City’s diligent efforts during the opening ceremony did not go unnoticed, with many divisions expressing positive feedback.
One standout highlight was the Sinulog performances by the Banauan Cultural Group of Barangay Guadalupe, who clinched the championship title in the Sinulog Ritual Showdown 2024, and the Lumad Basakanon, the third placer in the Sinulog free interpretation category.
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LIST: Winners of the Sinulog sa Sugbo Philippines 2024
Both performances entertained the audience with their impeccable choreography and vibrant portrayal of traditional Sinulog dances.
Athletes Reyna Belle Pait from the division of Tagbilaran City and Raiven Louis Lucenas from the division of Canlaon City expressed their amazement at the entire event held at the SRP.
They both said they would love to join the next CVRAA and hope it stays in Cebu City.
Dr. Salustiano Jimenez, the DepEd Region 7 director officially declared the CVIRAA 2024 open.