SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – The Region 1 Athletic Association (R1AA) Meet 2025, held in Bacnotan, La Union, from March 11 to 15, concluded, showcasing the athletic prowess of over 8,000 student-athletes from across the Ilocos Region.
This annual event served as a platform for grassroots sports development, fostering discipline, camaraderie, and skill enhancement among the region’s youth.
The five-day competition, hosted by the municipality of Bacnotan, demonstrated strong community support, highlighting the region’s commitment to nurturing future athletes.
The event not only facilitated athletic competition but also served as a developmental program, aligning with the Philippine Sports Commission’s (PSC) mandate to strengthen youth sports nationwide.
Rhoda Razon, assistant regional director of the Department of Education (DepEd) Ilocos, emphasized the R1AA Meet’s role as a training ground for aspiring athletes.
“This event is more than just a competition – it is a stepping stone for young athletes to reach greater heights. It provides them with the experience and exposure needed to excel at national and even international levels,” Razon said.
She also underscored the importance of balancing academics and sports, advocating for the holistic development of student-athletes.
Bacnotan Mayor Divina Fontanilla urged the participants to uphold integrity and strive for excellence, reinforcing the event’s focus on character development.
“We are proud to have hosted this significant event, which contributes to the growth of our youth and the advancement of sports in our region,” Fontanilla said.
Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairperson Richard Bachmann reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting grassroots sports programs.
“The PSC will continue to invest in initiatives that nurture young talents and provide them with the resources they need to succeed,” Bachmann assured.
Beyond the competition, the R1AA Meet fostered a sense of unity and sportsmanship.
Alannis Sophia Hodge, an athlete from Pangasinan, highlighted the event’s broader impact.
“I see the R1AA as an opportunity for us, the youth, not only to compete but also to build new friendships and expand our horizons. It’s not just about medals and rankings but also about learning from others, embracing sportsmanship, and creating lasting memories,” she explained.
This sentiment reflects the event’s success in promoting personal growth and social development alongside athletic achievement.
The R1AA Meet 2025 served as a catalyst for sports development in Region 1, with winners qualifying to represent the Ilocos Region at the Palarong Pambansa, scheduled to be held in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, from May 24 to June 2, 2025.
This progression highlights the event’s crucial role in the national sports pipeline. (AMB/KJCR/PJP, PIA La Union)
