Davao de Oro Climbs to Third Place at 2026 Davras Meet, Showcasing Resilience
Davao de Oro has achieved a notable rise in the regional sports arena, moving up to third place overall at the recently concluded 2026 Davao Regional Athletic Association (Davras) Meet. The Golden Thunderbolts demonstrated significant improvement, overtaking Tagum City after securing fourth place in 2025.
Medal Count Highlights Progress
In the 2026 competition, Davao de Oro amassed an impressive total of 43 gold, 65 silver, and 78 bronze medals. This marks a substantial increase from last year's tally of 30 gold, 56 silver, and 71 bronze medals, as per the official count. The jump of 13 additional gold medals is the clearest indicator of the province's athletic advancement, with many close finishes from 2025 transforming into podium victories this year.
Overcoming Adversity
This rise is particularly commendable given the challenges faced in the past year. An earthquake disrupted training schedules and damaged venues across the province, posing significant obstacles for athletes and coaches alike. In response, the Department of Education (DepEd) Davao de Oro Schools Division Office organized a multi-venue provincial meet across 11 towns to ensure competitions could proceed. Coaches adapted their training schedules, and parents found innovative ways to support their children's participation, showcasing a community-wide effort.
Leadership and Support
The success was bolstered by strong support from local officials. Davao de Oro Governor Raul G. Mabanglo, along with congressional representatives Maria Carmen S. Zamora and Leonel "Jhong" D. Ceniza, actively backed the Thunderbolts' delegation campaign, providing resources and encouragement that fueled the athletes' performances.
Standout Athlete Performances
The surge to the podium was driven by exceptional performances in both secondary and elementary divisions, with the municipality of Maragusan playing a pivotal role. In the secondary division, distance runner Charlen Cos of Maragusan National High School secured the province's first gold medal in the girls' 3,000 meters. After her victory, Cos expressed gratitude, stating, "We wouldn't have achieved this if you weren't guiding us every step of the way," in a heartfelt post thanking her coaches and family for their unwavering support during long training days.
In the elementary division, gymnast Flexie Kate U. Ibarra of Maragusan Central Elementary School led a medal surge with a remarkable display. She won gold medals in floor exercise, bars, vault, and individual all-around, while also earning a silver on the balance beam. Her outstanding performance significantly contributed to widening Davao de Oro's lead over competing teams, solidifying their third-place finish.
Overall Rankings
Davao City and Davao del Norte maintained their dominance, finishing first and second overall, respectively, at the meet. However, Davao de Oro's ascent highlights a growing competitive spirit and resilience in the region's youth sports scene.
