‘Despite limited preparation, do your best to perform even better’ - BM Kitongan to Kalinga CARAA delegates

Tabuk City, Kalinga – Despite the limited preparation, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee on Education Chair Emilio Kitongan expressed confidence that Kalinga athletes are ready to compete in the regional competition.

Kitongan, a board member for District 1 of Kalinga known for his youth support initiatives, made the statement during the send-off ceremony for the province’s delegation before their departure to Benguet to compete in the 2026 Cordillera Administrative Region Athletic Association (CARAA) Meet.

The Kalinga provincial meet, initially scheduled for 2025, was rescheduled to January 14–17, 2026, to give municipalities sufficient time to recover from a series of unfortunate events in their areas. This adjustment affected the timeline for selecting and preparing the official provincial delegation for the CARAA Meet.

Addressing the student-athletes, Kitongan urged them not to view the short preparation as a setback but as motivation to perform even better. He emphasized that victory depends not solely on long months of training but on determination, discipline, and focus.

“We all know our preparation time has been limited. Some may see this as a disadvantage, a reason to worry or doubt. But for me, and for our entire province, this is not a hindrance—it is motivation!” Kitongan stated.

Kitongan added, “Show the entire Cordillera that Kalinga does not need months of training to become champions. We only need the heart of a warrior of Kabunyan! That short training has given you an edge—the hunger to win, and the drive to prove that Kalinga is always ready, always brave, and always rising even amid limitations. You carry not only your uniforms and equipment but also the hopes of the entire province. You carry the support of our parents, teachers, fellow citizens, and the prayers of our ancestors. Show them the true Cordilleran spirit: resilient, honorable, and full of fighting heart.”

Kitongan also assured that the Provincial Government, headed by Governor James Edduba and Vice Governor Dave Odiem, continues to support the athletes, coaches, and trainers in their endeavors.

“Long live Kalinga! Long live our athletes and coaches! Long live CARAA 2026! Let us win big,” he concluded.

With 7,000 delegates expected to participate, including 481 from Kalinga, the regional sports meet will run from February 22 to 27.]