LUNA, Apayao – The Department of Education–Cordillera (DepEd CAR) has officially granted approval to the province to host the Cordillera Administrative Region Athletic Association (CARAA) Meet 2024 slated for April.
In a formal letter dated January 22, 2023, DepEd CAR Regional Director Estela Leon-Carino sanctioned the request made by Governor Elias C. Bulut, Jr. to bring CARAA back to the province of Apayao.
“Your request is hereby approved. May we, therefore, schedule a meeting with you and the host Schools Division Office (SDO) to discuss necessary matters concerning the activity,” the letter read.
Governor Bulut emphasized Apayao’s ambition to host CARAA 2024, the region’s largest and most prestigious sporting event, in a letter addressed to the DepEd CAR Regional Director on December 28, 2023.
“Our province expresses its earnest intention to host CARAA 2024, the largest and most prestigious sporting event in our region,” the letter stated.
Governor Bulut took pride in Apayao’s outstanding performance during CARAA 2023 in Baguio City, securing the overall First Runner Up position.
Acknowledging CARAA’s multifaceted impact in promoting sports excellence, camaraderie, and instilling values of discipline and teamwork among the youth, Gov. Bulut emphasized the essential role of the event in advancing sports in the educational sector.
He further underscored the potential positive impact of hosting CARAA 2024 on the province’s tourism industry, anticipating that the convergence of athletes from various provinces would showcase Apayao’s unique culture, natural beauty, and hospitality. This exposure is expected to attract visitors and tourists that will ultimately contribute to the economic growth of local communities.
DepEd CAR will conduct inspections of playing areas, billeting schools, and other facilities after the initial meeting. This marks the province’s third time hosting CARAA, following its previous hosting duties in 2013 and 2019. By JCM
