

MelanesaR Garces
BernadethM Genol
MaasinCity– In a heart-pounding matchup, Eastern Samar’s Kidlat Esti elementary boys’ basketball team secured a dramatic 70-68 victory over Northern Samar’s Norte Eagles during the Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic Association (EVRAA) Meet held at CombadoGym,MaasinCity,February28,2025.
Kidlat Esti and Norte Eagles match reached an electrifying climax in the fourth quarter With only 31 seconds left on the clock, Kidlat Esti leads by a single point,67-66
Withonly21secondsleftontheclock,NorthernEagles took the lead 68-67, putting immense pressure on KidlatEstitomakeafinalplay.
Nine seconds left when Luke Brendon B. Almeda steppedup,provingwhyhewasthestarplayerofthe team. Almeda drove past defenders pushing Kidlat Esti ahead sealing the final score at 70-68 Northern Eaglestriedtobutfailedtoconvert Conttop7
In a dramatic turn of events at the Individual Anyo Single Weapon Event, held at Tagnipa Gym, Tagnipa Maasin City, Arnisador Fred Lorence Padere, a Grade 4 pupil of Ibarra Elementary School, Ibarra Maasin City, was on the slant of victory in the single baston execution event when fate dealt him a cruel blow his baston snapped mid-performance, dashing his championship hopes Padere displayed masterful technique and accuracy throughout the competition, earning high admiration and compliments from judges and viewers. His fluid strikes and solid focus positioned him as a first top contender for the gold However, just seconds before he could secure his place on the podium, his weapon gave way under the intensity of his execution, the unexpected equipment failure meant an automatic disqualification from the gold medal race, turning whatseemedlikeasurevictoryintoaheartbreaking loss
Despite the painful outcome, Padere remained composed and gracious in defeat, vowing to come backstrongerinthenextexecutions
"Wa ko mag dahom nga mabali, pero nahitabo na, " he said. "Mag execute pa ko ug tarong sa sunod paramakuhanahoanggold."
Fans and fellow arnisadors applauded his sportsmanship, with many calling for improvements in competition regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future. Padere’s resilience and skill have only hardened his status as one of the most remarkablearnisadorstowatchinupcomingevents
Despite the setback, Padere’s performance left a lasting impression, earning the admiration of fans, fellow competitors, and even the judges. His resilienceandskillprovedthatheisawarrior,bothin andoutofthecompetition #
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During the opening program of the EVRAA Meet 2025, Honorable Mayor Nacional Mercado confidently highlighted that Maasin City is fully preparedtohosttheesteemed2028 Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic AssociationMeet Such words showcased a remarkable honor and an opportunity that must be taken seriously. But are we truly set? Is our preparedness at par with the standards expected of us? Can MaasinCityrisetotheoccasionand host this prestigious event with the excellenceitdeserves?
It is cognizant that in every activity, in every push, a flaw always taint Thisyears,hosting forthe2ndlegof EVRAA is already impressive. Amechanism of carefulplanning is
manifest among the playing venues, assistance to schools, program preparations from the parade down to the welcome nights, and a lot more. Indeed, we worked hard aiming to showcase our hospitality, yet it is intertwined with loopholes. Such seatback is a great avenue for us to work better; to unleash our potentials. That from the faced frails, a mantra of commitment echoes A commitment to making our city shine on this notable stage Continuousimprovementsofschoolbilletingareas,watersupplyamongothers,ensuringthatthedelegationsstay ismorethancomfortisamongthemanyconcernsofgreatfocusandcarefulplanning Ourintertwinedthoughts andcollectiveideasinensuringthatourvisitors areadequatelysupportedandcaredfor WeaspiretohostanexceptionalEVRAAevent Thisaspirationbeacallforaction Scrutinizingfurtherourplanning processesandtailoring flawsthroughtakingdecisivedecisionsandactionsintoadvancingourpreparationsserve our pedestal. That our continuing collective efforts be a mechanism to realize our aims. We are not just representingMaasinCity;weareshowcasingthespiritoftheentireRehiyonOtso Letusembodythefiercetenacity of our "Maasin City Tigers." Ensuring all preparations even to the minute is meticulously planned from accommodating our beloved delegates to providing world class playing venues, and prioritizing the welfare of everyone, especially our dear athletes Like the majestic tiger, we must be agile and resilient, ready to confront challenges head-on. Like the tigers eye , we must stay focus with our shared vision towards our insights, our dreams The Maasinhon hospitality must radiate as we strive to give our best Together, we can create an unforgettableexperiencethatreflectsthetruecultureandvibrantspiritoftheMaasinhon.Thatthesevisitorswould continuetosettheirfeetonourbelovedcityforwehavecapturedthemthroughourunifiedwelcominggestures. We have the potential to exceed expectations Let's make sure that as we welcome our guests, we settle not for less;wearespectacularlyset.Together,wecan!Together,withourbayanihanspirt,ourvisitorswouldechotothe air“MaasinCity,Lamice!#
Writtenby:
WynstelleMarquez
MaasinCity,Philippines–MaasinCityArnisMixed MartialArtsClubmembersFrenchezkaLacernaand SamJordanRodriguezbag4goldmedalsintheArnis IndividualLikhangAnyocategoryforelementaryand secondaryonFebruary28,2025duringtheEasternVisayas RegionalAthleticsAssociation(EVRAA)MeetattheTagnipaGym
Lacerna,agrade5student,earnedstaggeringscoresof97,99, anda perfect 10 in the Individual LikhangAnyoSoloBaston, IndividualLikhangAnyoDoubleBaston,and Espada y Daga elementarygirls’category.WhileRodriguez,agrade12student, earnedascoreof99intheAnyoSoloBastonsecondaryboys category.
Lacerna admitted there was some sort of pressure during the performance: "Kanang sa acrobatics, na pressurekaayokokanangpagbackflip Wanalamangahogiapplysaanyokaydelikado"
Lacerna and Rodriguez experienced rigorous trainings and preparations before EVRAA 2025. "Nag train kofor6months.Angahopreparationbeforeanikaymagtrainingkougmagsigeugampo.Magsigeug amponamaka-dauguntaugmadalasapalaro."saidLacerna.
Rodriguez mentioned – "Kada adlaw, training jud. Kana pud mga tambag sa mga coaches ninjo, buhatonjudnimo Dilimimosuwaynila,parailamgatambag,amopudbuhaton"
John Ranilo Lamanilao, one of the Arnis coaches of MAMMAC mentioned during an interview– "After pandemic after sa tacloban, mo undang na tana mi pag training kay wa man mo suweldo sa among pagka trainer sa arnis Pero, nakit-an man jud namo ang love and passion sa mga bata, mao tong nagkasinabotmisamoubangkaubannatrainersnamotudlominilaONELASTTIME.Peroangnahitabo isnahiremankosDepedugahongkaubanpudnacoachisnahiresaCity,maotoningcontinuepami ugtrainnila."
This is not Lacerna and Rodriguez's first time competing in the Arnis Individual Likhang Anyo category. Lacerna represented the region for the Individual Likhang Anyo Solo Baston elementary girls category duringthe2024PalarongPambansa,heldinCebuCity,earningheragoldmedal.Meanwhile,Rodriguez raisedtheregion’sbannerduringthe2023BatangPinoyfortheNon-TraditionalLikhangAnyoCategory where he finished 5th in the entire nation, and the 2024 Evraa for the Likhang Anyo Double Baston secondaryboyscategory#
Writtenby:
KryzjahXy-ZaJones
Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic Association (EVRAA) 2025 officially opened with a dazzling showcase ofskillandartistryastheArtisticPencakSilateventelectrifiedthecitygroundsthisFebruary28,2025,at PopePaulVIMinorSeminary.
Kicking off the event was a breathtaking exhibition performance by Princess Febby Eguia Acabal, a Palarong Pambansa quarterfinalist from Ormoc City, along with a National Accredited Coach, Ma'am ArchiebalC Tubal,theTournamentDirectorforPencakSilat
Every movement they delivered radiated mastery. Each tendangan (kick) and pukulan (punch) executed with precision, raw power, and unshakable poise. The crowd watched in awe as the duo seamlesslycombinedgraceandcombat,settingahighstandardforthecompetitionahead.
Competition intensified as Renaldo Busa of Calbayog City launched battle dominance His fluid yet controlled movements showcased exceptional skill, blending grace and power With every strike and stance,heraisedthebar,challenginghisopponentstomatchhislevelofartistryandprecision
Aseachathletetooktheirturnonthegelanggang(competitionarena),theirblendofstrength,flexibility, and traditional Indonesian martial arts techniques was simply captivating. The artistic category, known forhighlightingform,creativity,andharmonyofmotion,createdanelectrifyingatmosphere,settingthe perfecttonefortheweek-longtournament
CrowderuptedwhenMarcCharlesAcabalfromOrmocCitytookthestage,deliveringapowerfulroutine thatlasted3minutesand1second,aperformancethatmadehisteamproud.
SiglaroElitesCoachJhuncilJoemarBobares,quotedthat,"DespitePencakSilatbeinganindividualsport, we came here as a team, we trained as a team. We represent one name therefore we uplift our teammates",
EasternSamarteamshowedunwaveringsupportforMarkJhonD Cuna,asheconfidentlyperformedon themat.Hisroutine,spanning2minutesand50seconds,startedstrong,butaslipofhisbladeresulted inapointdeduction.
Despite the setback, his impressive display of skill was applauded. Emotional moment that followed an encouraging hug from his coach and cheers from his fellow athletes highlighted the true spirit of sportsmanship
MaasinCityTigersalsofacedtheirshareofsetbackasanathleteexperiencedachallengingmomentin the Tunggal Male category, forgetting parts of his routine and exceeding the time limit by 1 minute and 30seconds,resultinginapointdeduction.
CoachGraceR.FernandezoftheMaasinCityPencakSilatteamputit:"Ourmindsetisnottobringhome thebacon,buttolettheathletesexecutetheirskills,developtheirskillsmore,enjoythegame,andmost especially,makememories"
As the games went on, participants competed in solo (tunggal), double (ganda), and team performances (reggu), each striving to impress the judges with their mastery of rhythm, balance, and expression. The crowd applauded with appreciation as athletes executed complex sequences and traditionalforms,reflectingbothculturalheritageandathleticprowess.
But the question still remains, who will emerge victorious from the quagmire and leave this battlefield wavingtheirdelegation'sflaghigher?Staytuned!#
AbondioG.DuarteJr.
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Geared towards commitment, the Municipal Mayor Hon Alan Jose K Aroy showed his untiring support as cluster Co-host of EVRAA Meet 2025 in collaboration with Ichon ES/NHS teaching staff as they welcome the guests from the Divisions of Tacloban City and Southern Leyte during their Welcome Night at Ichon GymnasiumFebruary28,2025
Hon Aroy expressed his remarkable thoughts that hosting isn’t easy but with his dedication to serve, the guests were safe and secured“In Macrohon you’re in good hands” Macrohon, ang lugar nga mahigugmaon og maabi-abihon”, hesaid
He encouraged guests and visitors to showcase perseverance, to foster the spirit of sportsmanship and to rekindle solidarity in the whole duration of the affair. “In a Chinese theme, the crowd went wild in a reverberated moment of happiness as the selected Ichon NHS dancers showcased their performances in Chinese genre with a chant, “huān yíng”.
Aimingtomesmerizethespectators,
IchonNHSteachersshowcasedtheirentertaining danceperformanceimbued withcharismaandeyecatching1980’scostume
Presentduringtheeventwerethe honorarykeyofficialsfromtheLGUof MasinCityheadedbyHon National V Mercado HesharedthatMaasin CityasthesmallestDivisioninthe regionwasbeyondproudtohost thisyear’sEVRAA.Healsomade suretobemorepreparedin hostingbacksoontheEVRAA in2028.
Dr MyrnaT Caballero,PrincipalIIIof IchonNationalHighSchool,had genuinelysharedherwordsofgratitude torecognizeallthepeoplewhohadhelped beyondthesuccessoftheevent
Meanwhile,Dr JosilynS Solana,theSchools DivisionSuperintendentofSouthernLeyte, extendedhergratitudetotheCityofMaasin forhostingthehugeevent.Shesaidthat allactivitieswerebeingmanaged accordinglywithpropercoordinationto theProvinceandSDOSouthernLeyte. “Inunitythere’sstrength”,Solana added
Theeventendedataround9pm leavingsmilesineveryone Both divisionsaremorethan thankfulforthehospitality #
Ormoc City athlete Ma Yanny C Galapin showed great skill and dedication as she won the Double Baston Secondary Girls event at Tagnipa Gym, Maasin City, on February28,2025
During the event, Galapin performed with great skill and positive vibes She twirled andtossedthebastonwithoutmistakes,showingherfocusandskillunderpressure Smooth baston exchanges, and perfect landings, high-speed spins and aerial tosseswithfullcontrolensuredeachbastonwascaughteffortlessly.
Galapin impressed the judges with this movements, earning scores of 99, 99, 99, 98, and 97 Her performance stood out because of her perfect timing and execution. Her movements and confident stage presence made her routine look effortless,evenifit'sdifficult Sheshowednosignsofhesitation,demonstratinggreat focusandcomposureunderpressure
Her victory was the result of a month of intense training, focusing on strength, endurance, and coordination She dedicated hours each day to perfecting her routinesandbuildingconfidenceinherexecution
"Concentration mi for 1 month grabe pero dili kaayo ingon ka lisod pero strict amo trainings para makuha ni namo among gi need, unya ang nag push nako og nag hatagoginspirationkayahongcoach"Galapirecalledinaninterview
With her discipline and passion for the sport, Galapin is expected to continue achievingsuccessinfuturecompetitionsandinspireotherathletestodoso #
Northern Samar put up a fierce fight,keepingthegameclosewith strategic ball movement and key shots. However, Eastern Samar's resilience and teamwork allowed them to maintain their advantage headingintothefinalquarter
Almeda,theteam’starplayersaid “Nanalo kami dahil hinigpitan namin ang aming depensa. Mas paghahandaan pa namin ang aming susunod na laro against BoronganCitymamaya.”
Coach Noeme M Cosultado of KidlatEstiexpressedhishappiness inwinningtheirfirstgame.
With this victory, Eastern Samar strengthens its bid, aiming for more triumphs in the upcoming games # (fromp1)
Writtenby:
CityGym,Maasin– Down a set and on the brink of elimination, Juliefer C. Pueblos of Maasin stunned Cheska Jane Rulona of Norte Eagles with explosive smashes, securing a 2-1 win in the EVRAA Singles A Secondary Girls'badmintonmatchonFebruary28,2025.
Withthecrowdontheirfeetandthetensionatitspeak,Pueblosunleashed a series of precise blows, forcing Rulona to touch the net and clinching Pueblosthefirstvictoryofthematch.
Rulona showcased her signature footwork, jumping to an early 8-3 lead while Pueblos struggled to find her rhythm Rulon capitalized on the errors, closingoutthefirstset21-17
MomentumshiftedinthesecondsetasPueblostightenedherdefenseand exhibited swift footwork, taking control of the match with a stunning fourpoint streak that put her ahead 10-3 Remaining focused throughout, Pueblosclinchedthesecondset21-17
Soakedinsweat,Puebloscontinuedtoexecuteherstrategy,forcingRulona tocovereverycornerofthecourt Rulonastruggledtokeepup,gaspingfor air and weakening her defensve reflexes Though Pueblos tripped during a cruciallongrally,shequicklyregainedhercomposureanddominatedwith sharpnetplaysandpowerfulreturns,surgingahead17-13
“Gigamitnahungastrengthistaasughangin,”Pueblosadmitted “Nakitanahungaweaknessnijaisbackhand ug block,” she added “Okay na unta to kaso ang kakapoy lang talaga,” Rulona confessed “Babawi po ako sa susunod,moretrainingspa,”shevowed Asthecrowdroared,Pueblossealedthevictorywithaprecisesmash,takingthefinalset21-14andsecuringher place in the next round Pueblos moved forward with momentum, while Rulona aimed to bounce back in her nextmatch.#
Unbelievable! That's the only word to describe the final seconds of this nail-biting contest at Maasin City's Asuncion Gym on February 28th, 2025, where Maasin Tigers edged out Norte Eagles 18-17 in a 3x3 secondarygirls'basketballshowdown
The atmosphere crackled with anticipation as the clock ticked down, the score hanging precariously in the balance. Every dribble, every shot, every defensive play was met with gasps and cheers from the crowdofdelegatesandcommunitymembers.
From the opening tip-off, both teams displayed remarkable skill and athleticism Norte Eagle’s quick passesandaggressivedrivestothebasketkeptMaasinTigersontheirtoes,whilethelatterresponded with a strategic blend of offensive prowess and tenacious defense. The game was a back-and-forth affair,withneitherteamabletoestablishacommandinglead.
The final minutes saw a flurry of baskets, each one raising the stakes Eagles fought valiantly; their determination evident in every play. However, Tiger's teamwork proved to be the deciding factor. They movedtheballwithprecision,capitalizingoneveryopportunityandexecutingtheirplaysflawlessly.
Coach Juanito Mendoza III, in a post-game interview, highlighted the importance of teamwork in their narrowvictory "Teamwork,alwaysworkasateamragajudwaypinalabi,"heemphasized,creditingthe team'scollectiveeffortfortheirsuccess.Theuniquechallengeof3x3basketball,wherecoachinginputis limitedduringplay,madethiscollectiveeffortevenmoreimpressive.
Team captain Asheira Brenn Salazar expressed her excitement and pride in the team's performance. "Nindotsapaminaw,firsttimepaninamuperonindotgihaponamongnahatagngaduwa,"sheshared, expressingtheteam'ssatisfactionwiththeirfirst-timeperformanceandthequalityoftheirgame
Scores were close underscoring the game’s display of athleticism, determination, and sportsmanship. Bothteamsshowcasedimpressiveskills,strength,andstamina,battlinguntilthefinalbuzzer.
Despitethethrillingwin,theTigersremainedfocusedforcontinuousimprovement Theircommitmentto honingtheirskillsandteamworkwillundoubtedlyservethemwellinfuturecompetitions.
The one-point margin of victory underscores the intensity and competitiveness of the match. It was a game that showcased the best of 3x3 basketball: quick plays, strategic thinking, and unwavering teamwork #
Writtenby:
NaizaMarieP.Mercedes
and quick attacks from Merto Samar struggled with errors, allowing Leyte to pull away With Leyte leading 23-9, they swiftly finished the set 25-11, forcing a decidingthirdframe
In the final set, Leyte took the first point, but Samar capitalizedonLeyte’serrors,includingthreeconsecutive mistakesbyCañete Bythecourtchangeat13-10,Samar had regained control,showcasing their teamworkand
defensive strength A crucial block from Merto and Barrientos kept Leyte in the fight, but Samar’s composure was essential With match point at 24-18, they sealed the victory at 25-19, earning the first win in the secondary girls' volleyball division. After the match, Sparker's head coach recognized early preparation for theirvictory
“So last January third week, nag-prepare na kami kasi ngadibawinnertakesall,somahirapandyouknowthis is EVRAA kaya you will expect the best of the best. So kaya nag-prepare kami ng maaga para ma-condition ‘yungmgabata,”hestatedinapost-gameinterview
Meanwhile, Leyte’s team captain, Dexian Mae Napoles, reflected on their performance and promised to improveintheirnextmatch
“Yes,nag-expectgayudmikayningagimanmiughard trainings.Agamolangganii-improvekayfirsttimeman gud namo sa EVRAA and ag exposure kay wala pa sila ka-adjust So bali inig next duwa namo, taasan lang gayud namo among self-confidence, nya communication sa court ug salig lang sa kaugalingon,” shesaid.
With this victory, Samar Sparkers advances in the competition, setting the stage for an exciting tournamentahead #
Writtenby:
DoriAnnCrisPetere
Maasin City – The Sparkers (Samar Division’s secondary girls’ basketball team) delivered a dominant performance, crushing the Whale Sharks (SouthernLeyteDivision)85-59inaone-sidedaffairattheMambajaoGym on February 28th From the opening tip, the Sparkers controlled the tempo, showcasing superior skill and teamwork that left the Whale Sharks strugglingtokeeppace.
The Sparkers’ offense was a well-oiled machine, with crisp passing and precise shooting creating easy scoring opportunities Their relentless fullcourt press forced numerous turnovers, leading to transition baskets and extending their lead throughout the game. The Whale Sharks fought hard, displaying flashes of individual brilliance, but the Sparkers' depth and strategicadjustmentsprovedtoomuchtoovercome
The second quarter saw the Sparkers pull away, outscoring the Whale Sharks by a significant margin. Their suffocating defense limited the Whale Sharks' scoring opportunities, while the Sparkers' offensive efficiency continued to build their lead The halftime scores already reflected the Sparkers'dominance,settingthestageforacomfortablevictory
Coach Virgilio Manog praised his team's performance, highlighting their strategic approach. "Nanalo kami sa pamamagitan ng good planning and different strategies sa paglalaro ng basketball," he said in a post-game interview,emphasizingtheimportanceofpreparationandadaptability
Despite the loss, the Whale Sharks displayed commendable resilience and determination.Theirplayersshowedheart,nevergivingupdespitefacinga significant deficit The game served as a valuable learning experience, highlightingareasforimprovementintheirgame
Sparkers captain Lucy Mae Ocdol acknowledged the victory but also recognized areas for improvement. "More improvements pa para amon team, para mas makusog pa kami," she stated, demonstrating the team's commitmenttocontinuousgrowth
The final buzzer solidified the Sparkers' commanding victory The 85-59 score line underscored their superior performance throughout the game. While the score reflects a significant gap, both teams showcased impressive athleticism and sportsmanship. The game concluded with a display of respect and camaraderie between the players, coaches, and spectators. The Sparkers' win sets the stage for their continued success in futurecompetitions #
Writtenby:
CherryJoyC.Caube
TOPSOval,Mantahan,MaasinCityThrough disciplined defense, relentless attacks, and strategic execution, Southern Leyte Whale Sharks Men’s Elementary Football Team dominated the Samar Sparkerswitha2-0victory,punching their ticket in the next stage of the EVRAA 2025 elimination round this afternoon,February28,2025
Numerous free kicks and significant saves from both teams ignited the action-packed match. However, Tio of Whale Sharks draw first blood to put away a 1-0 lead in the 9th minute that set their momentum throughoutthecompetition.
Sparkers immediately bounced back, as they delivered several counter attacks and substitutions, hoping for a turning-point Despite Samar’s multiple close chances, their attempts to thwart the Whale Sharks’defensefellshort
Whale Shark’s defense and goal keeperheldhisgroundfirm,securing the clean sheet for the first half As the second half unfold, Samar could not regain as Lagbas furiously hit a low cross to seal their final score in the last 30th minute, dominantly endingthegame.
Coaches Juneil Malawi and Jasper Costillas shared that one of the key factors contributing their success in today’s competition is their rigorous training, as they aimed to level up last year’s standing as fourth placer inthesaidevent #
In just two years since its founding, Asuncion Rondalla has already graced major stages, proving that passion and perseverance can elevateeventheyoungestmusicalgroups.
Composed of students from Asuncion Integrated School, Maasin City, the ensemble hadadefiningmomentattheEasternVisayas Regional Athletic Association (EVRAA) Meet 2025 opening program, where they performed the National Anthem, Maasin City Hymn, Southern Leyte Hymn, DepEd Maasin City Hymn,andDepEdRO8Hymn.
For many of the young musicians, this was more than just another performance it was a statement of their growing presence in the region’sculturalscene.
Despite their success, the group faces challenges, particularly the lack of official practice, time and financial support for instrument upkeep. Their instruments, funded by PSWDO and entrusted to Asuncion Barangay Captain Readen Mark Serdan, have been invaluable in their journey, but maintainingthemremainsastruggle.
Still, Mr. Dennis Mulaan, their coach, remains steadfast, fostering discipline and passion among his students while ensuring that each practice is engaging and meaningful. From their debut at the Southern Leyte Anniversary to the grand stage of EVRAA, Asuncion Rondalla continues to defy the odds, proving that commitment, talent, and a deep love for tradition can transform a small-town ensembleintoasymbolofculturalpride.#