ZNAA Provincial Meet 2025 opens in Piñan with a spectacular ceremony

The Zamboanga del Norte Athletic Association (ZNAA) has officially opened the Provincial Qualifying Meet 2025 on November 22, 2025, at Piñan Central Elementary School, gathering athletes, coaches, and officials from six clusters across the province. The event will showcase the skills and sportsmanship of the athletes. Delegations from six clusters paraded around the Municipality of Piñan, waving their banners and cheering loudly for their team. The parade was led by the marching bands from Piñan, Lingasad, and Polanco. The ceremony was attended by provincial and municipal officials, including Governor Darel Dexter Uy, Hon. Rommel I. Gudmalin, and Hon. Benedicto Cainta II. From the Department of Education, Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Majarani M. Jacinto, SGOD Chief Dr. Ervie Acaylar and Dr. Jerry C. Bokingkito were also present to show support for the athletes. In his welcoming message, Governor Uy acknowledged the efforts of the athletes. “This meet is your moment to shine. Remember medals are made of gold, silver, and bronze, but a true champion has great discipline and integrity,” he said. The program proceeded with the raising of banners by the delegation heads, followed by the oath-taking of athletes, led by Tyron Jay B. Quilosa, bronze medalist in boxing at the Palarong Pambansa 2025 in Laoag, Ilocos Norte. The ignition of the Unity Flame was then carried out by Alshmeer K. Laysam, bronze medalist in Arnis. The ceremony reached its highlight with the official declaration of the opening of ZNAA 2025 by Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Majarani M. Jacinto, marking the start of days filled with competition, teamwork, and pursuit of excellence as athletes strive to represent Zamboanga del Norte at higher levels of competition.