Palawan took an early lead in the 2025 MIMAROPA Regional Athletic Meet, securing 16 medals (7 gold, 7 silver, 2 bronze) as of March 12. Meanwhile, Puerto Princesa City has yet to earn a medal, placing last among the seven delegations.
Over 3,000 athletes from the MIMAROPA (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan) Schools Division Offices (SDOs) are currently in the city to showcase their competitive spirit in the annual regional athletic meet.
During the opening ceremony on March 11, the delegations participated in a grand parade, led by Puerto Princesa’s Subaraw mascots.
Philippine Marine Corps color guard, Palawan State University Criminology students, and members of the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, carrying MIMAROPA banners.
Sta. Monica National High School students thrilling the audience with an electric bench cheer while students from Palawan National School and San Jose National High School performed mass demonstrations.
City Mayor Lucilo R. Bayron, DepEd MIMAROPA Assistant Regional Director Cherrylou D. Repia, and Schools Division Superintendent OIC Laida M. Lagar-Mascareñas welcomed the athletes.
In her speech, Lagar-Mascareñas emphasized the deeper meaning of the competition.
“The true essence of sports is not just about winning but also about learning, growing, respecting, and supporting each other,” she said.
The lighting of the Urn of Friendship capped the night, symbolizing unity, strength, and sportsmanship. Representatives from each province came together to ignite the flame, marking the start of the multi-day event.
In the overall current standings, Oriental Mindoro follows Palawan with 7 medals, while Occidental Mindoro holds third place with 9 medals.
