READ| February 10, 2023: The Department of Education (DepEd) Camiguin Division officially opened the 2023 Division Athletic Meet today, February 10, at the PPR Sports Complex, Government Center, Lakas, Mambajao, Camiguin.
These sporting events will last until Sunday, February 12, with the theme “Glow-up for Academic-Sports life Balance,” the first since the epidemic struck.

The opening day kicked off with a program participated in by the division key officials, delegation head, officiating officials, and athletes from the five municipalities who also performed their saludo.
Edgardo V. Abanil, CESO VI, Schools Division Superintendent, acknowledged the municipal delegation officials, stakeholders, and partners present at the opening.

DepEd-Camiguin officials hoisted the Division Athletic Banner as part of the sports tradition. Hon. Governor Xavier Jesus D. Romualdo, Chairman, Executive Committee, Five Municipal Mayors, and Superintendent Abanil, also joined in the simultaneous hoisting of delegation banners.
A multi-awarded athlete, tournament manager, and coach, Miguel Navarro, with local Executives assisted by other athletes, led the entrance of the friendship torch and lighting of the urn.

Hon. Lucille D. Salvani, SK Federated President, led the Athletes’ Pledge of Amateurism to remind the athletes of their role and the importance of sportsmanship. Similarly, Mr. Rodel Namoca, the officiating official, led the Technical Officials’ Pledge of the Conduct of the Games.

Ed Abanil challenged the athletes to do their best and represent Camiguin well in the higher sports arena. “Take time to practice, because to become an expert, you will have to practice your skills for ten thousand hours, but we need to really do it because not only we are spending government money, but we also need to do our best.
“Put your best foot forward; that is the essence of excellence, because not only in academics, but you should also excel in all aspects of our lives, because excellence is a way of life,” Abanil shared.

He also shared that the secrets to athletes’ success are committed coaches, supportive parents, and the entire village behind them.

SDS Abanil, Schools Division Superintendent, thanked the Provincial Government headed by Governor Xavier Jesus D. Romualdo and the LGU officials in the province for their support and compassion, which have materialized in the conduct of this division sports event.
He also emphasized the need for training the athletes after the division selection and is looking forward to longer periods of training in preparation for the regional athletic meet.

The event was attended by almost 900 coaches, athletes, officials, medical team members, and school personnel.

SDS Abanil declared the 2023 Division Athletic Meet officially open.