HOST BENGUET IMPROVES, LANDS 1ST RUNNER-UP CARAA 2025 AWARDS: SPORTS EXCELLENCE

March 4, 2025 Sports

PHOTO CELEBRATION: Host Team Benguet Stingers together with some officials from the different local government units ,education officials in the CARAA 2025 awarding rites at Benguet Sports Complex in La Trinidad (Benguet) .Photo by Glenn Marc Dulay/UB Intern

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet

The Cordillera Administrative Region Athletic Association (CARAA) 2025 games concluded with a spectacular awards ceremony, honoring the remarkable achievements of student-athletes in the region. Baguio City emerged as the overall champion, dominating the competition with an impressive 225-107-56 (gold-silver-bronze) medal haul, host Benguet emerged first runner-up with 79-106-88 while Apayao placed 2nd runner-up with 36-50-83. Baguio City School Division Superintendent Soraya T. Faculo, PhD, CESO VI, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support from the local government, parents and coaches, among others.

” Baguio’s athletes success was a testament to their rigorous training and commitment,” said Faculo as she recognized the tremendous improvement of other delegations. Regional Director Estela Leon-Carino, EdD, CESO III,also acting Benguet School Division head, celebrated their achievement. “I am thrilled that Benguet has reclaimed its traditional spot as first runner-up. Not only did we maintain our position, but we also increased our gold medal count from last year.” Apayao Superintendent Irene S. Angway, CESO V, remained optimistic “While we feel a bit down from last year’s first place, we recognize the improvements made by all regions. We are committed to enhancing our training programs moving forward.”

Special awards added an extra layer of excitement to the ceremony. Tabuk City was honored as the Most Disciplined Delegation, receiving a cash prize of 20,000 pesos and a plaque for their exemplary conduct throughout the games. Kalinga and Ifugao followed closely in second and third place. Baguio City also shone brightly in the Cleanest and Greenest Eco-friendly Billeting Area category, taking home another award along with 20,000 pesos and a plaque. The Best Billeting School awards were presented to Lucban Elementary School for first place, Puguis Elementary School for second place, and Lubas Elementary School along with La Trinidad High School for third place.

These schools were recognized for their outstanding hospitality and supportive environments for athletes. The awards ceremony served as a celebration of not just individual triumphs but also the collective effort of all participants—athletes, coaches, and organizers alike—who contributed to this year’s success. Each accolade reflected hard work and dedication to sportsmanship The spirit of camaraderie fostered during this year’s games will undoubtedly inspire athletes as they prepare for new challenges ahead like in the forthcoming Palarong Pambansa in Laoag City (Ilocos Norte).

Glenn Marc Dulay/ UB Intern