LUNA, Apayao – History repeated itself as Apayao retained its position as the first runner-up in the Cordillera Administrative Region Athletic Association (CARAA) for the third consecutive time, cementing its status as a rising sports powerhouse in the Cordillera.
After the extreme five-day competition from April 15 to 19, Apayao hauled an impressive tally of 62 gold, 74 silver, and 107 bronze medals, surpassing last year’s performance of 53 gold, 54 silver, and 85 bronze medals. Although slightly lower than their record-breaking performance in 2019 with 69 gold, 76 silver, and 79 bronze medals, this year’s success is still astonishing especially considering that the Apayao Eagles competed in front of their home crowd.
The unbeatable Baguio City once again established its dominance by claiming the overall championship, amassing an astounding 420 medals, including 237 gold, 111 silver, and 72 bronze medals, while Benguet held the third spot with 50 gold, 91 silver, and 89 bronze medals. Ifugao claimed the fourth position with 27 gold, 37 silver, and 62 bronze medals, while Abra followed with 16 gold, 32 silver, and 48 bronze medals. Kalinga earned 14 gold, 31 silver, and 57 bronze medals, Tabuk City garnered 12 gold, 17 silver, and 35 bronze medals, and Mountain Province bagged 5 gold, 27 silver, and 46 bronze medals.
Apayao Governor and Regional Development Council Chairperson Gov. Elias C. Bulut, Jr., along with Apayao Lone District Representative Cong. Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang, extend their congratulations to all the athletes, coaches, and officials from the eight competing delegations. By JCM