KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato (PIA) — The Department of Education in Region 12 is preparing for the Soccsksargen Regional Athletic Association (SRAA) meet, which will feature 7,000 student-athletes and guests from the region.
The SRAA meet, a weeklong sporting event slated for March 3 to 8, is an annual competition that gathers student-athletes from the nine school divisions in Soccsksargen to promote physical vitality, mental agility, and sportsmanship, among others.
The event serves as a screening and qualifying stage for the region’s representatives for Palarong Pambansa, the national youth games of the Philippines.
At a press conference on Feb. 27, DepEd Regional Director Carlito Rocafort announced that the 2025 SRAA meet will mark a historic first, highlighting the “unprecedented” joint hosting efforts between the city and provincial governments.
“We are making history, as this is the first time in Region 12 that a partnership between South Cotabato and the City of Koronadal has been formed to host this type of sports event,” Rocafort stated.
The Koronadal city government said it has allocated P19 million from the City Mayor’s Office to cover expenses for billeting, venue preparation, promotional activities, and program logistics, including meals and snacks.
City Mayor Eliordo U. Ogena emphasized that the city is prepared, ensuring that all guests and athletes from across the region will have a safe and enjoyable experience during the SRAA event.
The city’s co-host, the South Cotabato provincial government, has also committed over P50 million for the rehabilitation and upgrade of the South Cotabato Sports Complex, specifically focusing on the rubberized oval track, where most of the sporting events will take place.
Koronadal City Schools Division Superintendent Roberto J. Montero confirmed that classes will be suspended in schools designated to house the influx of athletes.
He said this move will allow for thorough preparation and ensure the facilities are fully ready.
Meanwhile, Rocafort appealed for widespread community support to ensure the successful execution of the event.
The official expressed confidence that the combined efforts of the city, province, and community will make the 2025 SRAA meet a resounding success. (AMB, PIA Region 12)
