Davao's Gymnastics Stars Secure Davraa 2026 Berth with Stunning Performances
The Davao City Athletic Association (Dcaa) Meet 2025 gymnastics competition concluded on Tuesday, November 18, at the Davao Golden Twist Training Center, crowning new champions who are now set to lead the city's campaign at the regional level. Jiahn Rych Madridano of Unit 7 and Abigail Rose Morrison of Unit 8 emerged as the most bemedalled athletes, delivering spectacular performances that have paved their way to the Davao Region Athletic Association (Davraa) Meet 2026.
Madridano's Golden Breakthrough
For 17-year-old Jiahn Rych Madridano from Holy Child College of Davao, this victory was a long-awaited triumph. A veteran of nine Dcaa editions, Madridano had never clinched a gold medal until this meet. Representing Unit 7 in the secondary boys’ MAG division, he shattered his personal record by winning an impressive six gold medals. His victories came in the floor exercise, vault, pommel horse, high bar, individual all-around, and team events, where he competed alongside Harvey Diaz Nuique and Ferdinand Manatad.
In an interview, Madridano expressed his overwhelming joy, stating, "I’m so happy and a bit nervous, but I'm happy now because I finally got the gold medal. Before, I only won silver. Now I got the gold, not just one, but six." He credited his coaches for his success, highlighting their role in motivating him to practice and set goals. This sweep holds special significance as it marks his final appearance in the Dcaa and Davraa meets before moving on to higher competitions.
Morrison's Commanding Presence
On the other side of the spectrum, nine-year-old Abigail Rose Morrison from Heartworks Learning Center showcased a performance beyond her years. Fresh from winning three golds and a silver at the Batang Pinoy national games, the Grade 5 student led Unit 8-Daprisa to its first-ever qualification in gymnastics for the Davraa Meet 2026. Competing in the elementary girls’ WAG division, Morrison secured five gold medals and one silver.
She dominated the team event, individual all-around, floor, beam, and bars, with her only silver medal coming from the vault. "I feel really happy and proud of myself," Morrison shared, emphasizing her gratitude towards her coaches, family, and friends. This was only her second Dcaa appearance, marking a significant improvement from her bronze medal finish in February 2025. She is now focused on upgrading her skills for her first Davraa Meet, with the ultimate goal of qualifying for the Palarong Pambansa.
Other Notable Qualifiers
The success story extends beyond Madridano and Morrison. In rhythmic gymnastics, Jhanrille Greca Barcelona put on a stellar show, winning gold in the individual all-around, clubs, freehand, and ball, and adding a silver in the hoop event. She will be part of the Davao City team preparing for the Davraa Meet 2026, alongside other qualifiers like Chalsea Belle Louise Tuazon, Samara Emilia P. Teves, Moira Leigh Copas, Yash Mae Magluya, and Chesna Bascon.
The Dcaa Meet 2025 has set a strong foundation for Davao City's gymnastics team as they prepare for the upcoming regional competition. With seasoned veterans and promising young talents, the city's athletes are poised to make a significant impact at the Davraa Meet 2026.
