July 16, 2024 - Cebu City
The Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Athletic Association (ZPRAA) achieved an unprecedented milestone at the 2024 National Palaro held in Cebu City, finishing in the 11th position out of 19 contingents nationwide. With an impressive haul of 12 gold, seven silver, and 16 bronze medals, ZPRAA recorded its best performance in the history of its participation in the national games, which took place from July 9 to 16.
This achievement marks a significant improvement for the ZPRAA, which placed 12th in its last participation in 2016 and was historically ranked as low as 16th or 17th. The steady rise in rankings reflects the region's commitment to nurturing athletic talent and providing support through enhanced resources, facilities, and training programs.
Reflecting on this remarkable performance, Dr. Ruth L. Fuentes, DepED IX Regional Director, commended the team’s dedication. “This year’s performance is a testament to the hard work, determination, and indomitable spirit of our athletes, coaches, and trainers,” Dr. Fuentes remarked. “Despite the challenges, we have shown that with unity and support, we can achieve great things.”
The competition was particularly intense, with ZPRAA facing strong contenders from powerhouse regions. However, the team’s resilience and commitment allowed them to excel, showcasing the region's potential and sparking inspiration for future athletes.
As ZPRAA looks forward, the region aims to build on this success and further improve in upcoming competitions. The achievement not only serves as a source of pride for the Zamboanga Peninsula but also motivates young athletes to strive for excellence, with a promising future ahead for ZPRAA in Philippine sports.
