Davao City Durians Triumph at Davraa Meet, Set Sights on Palarong Pambansa Defense
The Davao City Durians have once again proven their dominance in regional basketball, securing a decisive victory at the 2026 Davao Region Athletic Association (Davraa) Meet. On Friday, February 27, at the Rotary Gym in Tagum City, the team, spearheaded by the Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) Blue Knights, overwhelmed the Davao de Oro Golden Thunderbolts with a final score of 71-50. This win marks a successful defense of their Davraa championship, setting the stage for their next challenge: defending the Palarong Pambansa title in Agusan del Sur.
A Commanding Performance and Historic Aspirations
With this latest triumph, the Dabawenyos will proudly represent the Davao Region Eagles as they pursue back-to-back national glory. Their journey follows a historic gold-medal performance at last year's Palarong Pambansa in Ilocos Norte, fueling their motivation to repeat the feat. Head coach Jess Linus Evangelio, a decorated mentor instrumental in Davao City's basketball success, expressed immense gratitude and determination. "Very grateful and overwhelmed. Thank you, Lord! Extra motivated to defend our title in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa," he said, highlighting the team's joy and focus.
Evangelio emphasized that the celebration would be brief, with training resuming promptly. "Pero for this day lang. Ngayong Monday balik nanaman training," he added with a smile, underscoring the team's commitment to continuous improvement. He also extended heartfelt thanks to the Davao City community, the Cayetano family, supportive parents, and the Ateneo de Davao University for their unwavering encouragement throughout the season.
Player Insights and Team Dynamics
Matt Jerrick J. Cayetano, a 16-year-old Grade 11 Blue Knight who has played basketball since age four, shared his elation. "I feel happy and truly blessed that the Lord gave us this championship and gave us the chance to play in the Palarong Pambansa," he stated. Cayetano, a key contributor to last year's Palarong Pambansa gold, outlined the team's clear objective: "Goal namin is mag back-to-back champion sa Palarong Pambansa. Practice lang, hard work, support from family, and each other sa team namin." His words reflect the collective drive and camaraderie propelling the Durians forward.
The championship roster showcased a blend of talent from Ateneo de Davao University and other local institutions, including:
- Rhysus Rafael B. Bajenting
- Rene Clert N. Baterbonia
- Aaron Joash E. Bayanban
- Al Ivx M. Damag
- Aeron Lloyd F. Luague
- Jhonmark J. Peligrino
- Elijah Wayne Quintao
- John Leisley P. Repompo
- John Mark E. Sanoria
- Gerald D. Siason
- Marcus Nino P. Sisican
- Edryle Jhon R. Tanud-Tanud (Rizal Memorial Colleges)
- Paul Stephen E. Estandarte (Lamb of God Sped Academy)
- Gian Carlo Bulasa (Elias B. Lopez MNHS)
Assistant coach Bryan Ric Constantino supported Evangelio in guiding the team to victory, highlighting a collaborative coaching effort.
Looking Ahead to National Competition
As the Davao City Durians bask in their Davraa success, their eyes are firmly set on the upcoming Palarong Pambansa in Agusan del Sur. With a roster brimming with skill and a coaching staff dedicated to excellence, the team is poised to make a strong bid for consecutive national titles. This victory not only cements their regional supremacy but also reinforces their status as a formidable force in Philippine school sports.
