By Mariela Angella Oladive
Following the successful congressional meeting, the DepEd Division of Iloilo is all set for the upcoming Iloilo School Sports Competition (ISSC) Meet 2024 to kick off on March 10 at the Iloilo Sports Complex.
Various delegations of student-athletes, including elementary, secondary, and participants for paragames from different districts in the province, are set to compete in 26 sports events to be held in various locations across the province.
“This is the longest integrated meet because of the 9 school division units since we have additional contingents,” Division Sports Officer Nicasio Valenzuela informed during a press conference on Thursday, March 7.
An ocular visit will be held for all the school delegations before the opening.
Until March 15, spectators can witness the athletes’ prowess across different sports activities like ball games, arnis, archery, badminton, baseball, boxing, chess, futsal, gymnastics, sepak takraw, and more.
Winners of the ISSC Meet will advance to the Western Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) Meet in Bacolod City, scheduled to be held from May 2 to May 7.
“With regards to medical athletes were required to submit medical certificates. We will be deploying 71 health personnel and we have officials who will be manning the events, ambulances were also requested,” Division Sports Officer Medical Officer Dr. Rex E. Rocha said.
In the case of athletes needing an emergency, the department has also coordinated with various city and provincial hospitals.
With over 5,464 athletes, coaches, and chaperones expected to participate in the ISSC’s opening, anticipation runs high for an exciting and competitive sports spectacle.
“These (preparations) are for the continuity of learning of our athletes as we support them in the sports activity they have,” CID Chief Dr. Nestor Paul M. Pingil stressed.
Also present during the press briefing were OIC Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Ernesto F. Servillon Jr., OIC Asst. Schools Division Superintendents Ma. Lunie B. Sampani, Dr. Jerson B. Labos, and Dr. Marlon P. Destreza, SGOD Chief Dr. Gilbert D. Solidum, Administrative Officer V Mr. Jose Marie T. Bedro, Legal Officer/Attorney III Atty. Alberto L. Verdillo, and PSDS/ Division Information Officer Mr. Leonil T. Salvilla.
