ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Athletic Association (ZPRAA) Meet kicked off at the Joaquin Enriquez Memorial Sports Complex here on Sunday, April 21.
MAYOR John Dalipe lights the cauldron during the opening program to start the ZPRAA Games in Zamboanga City. (Photo via Liza Jocson)
The event started with a parade participated in by eight delegations from Zamboanga Peninsula – Zamboanga City, Isabela City, Dipolog City, Dapitan City, Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, and technical officials.
The program was highlighted by the turnover of the ZPRAA banner from Zamboanga del Sur, the previous host, to Zamboanga City Mayor John Dalipe. This was followed by the lighting of the cauldron that symbolized the opening of the games.
In his speech, Dalipe welcomed the delegates to Zamboanga City and advised athletes to do their best.
“Let us seize this opportunity to showcase the best of our region and demonstrate the spirit of resilience, determination, and perseverance that defines us,” said Dalipe.
The evening was capped by a spectacular fireworks display.
Athletes will compete in 25 different sports events at the Joaquin Enriquez Memorial Sports Complex and other venues in Zamboanga City.
This is the first time in 18 years that Zamboanga City hosted the ZPRAA.