Davao Para-Athlete Francis Reursora Balances School and Sports at 2026 Davraa Meet
Seventeen-year-old Francis Reursora, a dedicated student at Davao City National High School (DCNHS), is set to compete in his third Davraa Meet this year. The regional sports event will be held in Tagum City, Davao del Norte, from February 22 to 28, 2026. Each day, Francis rises before dawn, packs his school essentials, and heads to classes, knowing that by afternoon, he will return to rigorous training sessions, pursuing both academic excellence and athletic dreams.
Determination in the Face of Challenges
As a young para-athlete, Francis balances a demanding schedule of homework, intense drills, and recovery with unwavering resolve. He often encourages his fellow athletes with the words, "Ayaw lang mog kahadlok, makaya ra na tanan" (Don't be afraid. You can get through it). Competing in the Para Games of the regional qualifiers for the Palarong Pambansa, Francis aims to prove that discipline and persistence can transform perceived limitations into formidable strengths. For him, this competition transcends mere rankings; it is a personal journey to demonstrate his capabilities to himself and his supportive family.
His daily routine requires immense focus: morning classes, afternoon training, evening studies, and then preparation for the next day. While the grind can be exhausting, the unwavering support from his family fuels his motivation. Francis aspires not only to win a medal but also to complete his education, believing that sports can unlock opportunities far beyond the athletic arena.
Building Confidence Through Encouragement
Team manager Sofia Salvo has witnessed Francis's transformation firsthand. She emphasizes that their program prioritizes encouragement and positive reinforcement, ensuring athletes feel accepted, capable, and proud of their achievements. "These athletes grow not only in sport but as individuals," Salvo notes. The training regimen instills essential life skills, such as waking early, preparing gear, following routines, and fostering independence—habits that cultivate discipline long after competitions conclude.
For Salvo, the mere act of enrolling a child with a disability in competitive sports represents a significant victory. "Seeing them play with confidence, stand alone in life, have discipline, and feel happy and proud of themselves—that is already a win beyond medals," she asserts. This philosophy underscores the broader impact of inclusive sports programs.
Linking Sports to Inclusive Education
Junito Galan, division head focal for Davao City and public school district supervisor, draws a direct connection between inclusive sports and inclusive education. He highlights that special needs education programs align with the Inclusive Education Act of 2022, which advocates for equal opportunities for all learners, regardless of disabilities. Thanks to this initiative, students with special needs now participate in events like the Palarong Pambansa and other meets, including sports tailored specifically for them.
Galan believes inclusion should be a standard practice, not an exception. "Children should be treated equally. All learners should be given equal opportunities to develop their potential, regardless of their disabilities, so they can become productive individuals in a competitive society," he explains. His guiding principle is to combat discrimination and provide enhanced support to those with greater needs.
The Lasting Impact Beyond Medals
The Davraa Para Games continue to demonstrate that sports serve as a powerful training ground for building confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging. Through structured coaching, patient mentorship, and consistent motivation, athletes like Francis evolve not just as competitors but as self-assured individuals who trust in their own abilities.
For Francis, this personal growth already feels like a triumph. Every race he runs and every drill he completes reinforces his belief that he belongs on the field—and in any future path he chooses to pursue. The 2026 Davraa Meet is supported by the provincial governments of Davao del Norte, Davao de Oro, and Davao del Sur, along with the city government of Panabo City. SunStar Davao, as an official event partner and the region's most followed media company, leads special coverage of this inspiring event.
