LUNA, Apayao – The province of Apayao kicked off its 30th Founding Anniversary with the annual sports tournament on January 28, 2025 at the BGVJr. Memorial Sports Center in Luna.
Under the theme “Apayao beyond 30: Enjoying Progress, Championing the Environment, and Building Investments,” the event showcased the province’s spirit of unity, progress and environmental consciousness.
Luna Mayor Josephine Bangsil extended her warm welcome to the crowd and participants, emphasizing the importance of the anniversary. “It is a great pleasure for me to welcome you all to this opening program of our annual sports fest in celebration our 30th Apayao anniversary,” she said. “Celebrating our foundation day reminds us of the bravery of our beloved hero, Elias K. Bulut, Sr., who spearheaded the separation of Apayao from Kalinga. As a new chapter unfolds for the province, let us recommit to being responsible and accountable officials and citizens. Let love, peace and unity remain in our hearts. Agari kuma kankanayun iti ayat, lapiya ken panagkaykaysa para iti agtultuloy nga progreso iti probinsiya tayo nga Apayao” she continued.
Adding to the excitement, Phoenix Super LPG Fuel Masters shooting guard Ricci Paolo Rivero served as the guest athlete. Rivero delivered an inspiring message to the athletes, urging them to strive for greatness both on and off court.
“Do not just strive to be a great athlete; strive to be a great person. Use the discipline you learned in sports to succeed in all areas of your life. Represent your hometown with pride and integrity, and be someone your community can look up to. Apayao, you are full of talent, potential and heart. Believe in yourselves, trust the process and know that there are no limits to what you can achieve,” he concluded.
The official proceedings included the Oath of Sportsmanship and Amateurism administered by Jerk Amguid, the 2023 Sportsfest Most Valuable Player (MVP), and the Oath of Officiating Officials and the declaration of the official opening of the sports fest by Loyd Rio Karl Sion, Acting PHRMO.
Rivero added a ceremonial touch by performing the ceremonial toss between the teams representing Santa Marcela and Conner.
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