Passi City makes history as first-time host of WVRAA 2026
Passi City etched its name in Western Visayas sports history as it successfully hosted the 2026 Western Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) Meet for the very first time. The weeklong competition formally opened on March 17 at the Ricardo P. Palmares Sr. Memorial Sports Complex, drawing thousands of student-athletes, coaches, and officials from across Region VI.
The opening program brimmed with color and pride, featuring cultural performances, spirited presentations, and the grand parade of delegations—symbolizing unity, sportsmanship, and the vibrant identity of Western Visayas.
Leading the ceremony were Department of Education (DepEd) Undersecretary Peter Irving Corvera, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairperson Patrick “Pato” Gregorio, Passi City Mayor Stephen Palmares, DepEd Region VI Director Cristito Eco, and Passi City Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Nicasio Frio.
More than 7,000 delegates from eight Schools Division Offices converged in Passi, marking the city’s debut as host of the region’s premier athletic event.
In his message, Undersecretary Corvera lauded the Local Government Unit of Passi, led by Mayor Palmares, for its strong support to DepEd and for embracing the challenge of hosting the WVRAA Meet for the first time.
Mayor Palmares, in turn, described the hosting as a defining legacy for Passi City. He extended heartfelt gratitude to all partners and stakeholders who made the event possible, and proudly announced the city’s intent to bid for the Palarong Pambansa 2028.
Delegates will compete in more than 25 sporting events until March 22, showcasing the athletic excellence of Western Visayas youth.
The opening ceremony also drew prominent figures, including Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Undersecretary Jesry Palmares, USWAG Ilonggo Party-list Representative Jojo Ang, Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League President Kenneth Duremdes, Philippine Sepak Takraw Association President Karen Caballero, National Academy of Sports Executive Director III Kiko Diaz, Cebu sports icon Lorenzo Chao Sy, alongside city officials and department heads.
Regional leaders likewise graced the occasion, among them Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., Antique Governor Paolo Javier, Guimaras Governor Lucille Nava, Aklan Governor Joen Miraflores, Roxas City Mayor Ronnie Dadivas, Iloilo Vice Governor Lee Ann Debuque, Antique Vice Governor Genevieve Lim-Reyes, and other local chief executives, Schools Division Superintendents, and education partners.
With its successful first hosting, Passi City has proven itself a capable stage for regional sports, setting the tone for greater aspirations in the years ahead.
