ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – Zamboanga City kicked-off the Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Athletic Association (ZPRAA) Qualifying Games 2024 on Sunday, April 21, with preparations adjusted to accommodate the challenges posed by the El Niño phenomenon.

This year marked a significant milestone as Zamboanga City hosted the ZPRAA Games 2024 after an 18-year gap, with around 10,000 student-athletes and officials from 8 delegations across the Zampen Region expected to participate.

Mayor John Dalipe expressed gratitude for the opportunity of hosting the ZPRAA Qualifying Meet to showcase the capabilities of young athletes in the region, “I encourage each and every one of you to compete with all your heart and mind, embodying the values of sportsmanship, integrity and fair play,” he added. 

Executive Director Elbert Atilano of the Philippine Sports Commission announced that most games will be scheduled in the early morning and late afternoon to evening, avoiding the scorching midday hours. This decision is in response to concerns about athletes' exposure to extreme heat.

Billeting schools have been readied with essential amenities, and the city government allocated P27 million to ensure a successful event. The JFE Sports Complex in Baliwasan will serve as the main venue, with shuttle services provided to transport athletes to and from their accommodations.

Meanwhile, the security sector is also gearing up to guarantee the safety and well-being of delegates attending the ZPRAA Qualifying meet. Led by Mayor John Dalipe, the ZPRAA organizing committee has collaborated with the security sector to finalize security arrangements for the weeklong sports event. 

Both uniformed and non-uniformed police personnel will be strategically deployed at billeting schools and playing venues to ensure the delegates' safety from the 8 schools divisions in the region. Additionally, the Department of Education (DEPED) Regional Office has established protocols for athletes and coaches during their stay at the schools, further enhancing security measures.

Despite challenges posed by the El Niño heat, Zamboanga City is determined to showcase its organizational prowess and hospitality, promising an exciting and memorable ZPRAA Qualifying Games 2024 for all participants and spectators alike. (APG/EDT/MLE/PIA9-Zamboanga City)