Indang, Philippines - In an awe-inspiring display of athleticism and skill, the Cordillera Highland Warriors outperformed their counterparts from across the nation, securing an impressive haul of medals in the ongoing 2023 Philippine Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) Games. This prestigious event, held at Cavite State University in Indang and commencing on September 18, has not only showcased the impressive athletic prowess of these young leaders but also underscored the importance of equipping them with the necessary skills for international leadership roles.
The Cordillera Highland Warriors, representing six Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), converged with delegates from various HEIs across the nation during the commencement of the Philippine ROTC Games 2023-Luzon Regional Qualifying Leg.
The ROTC Games, a grand sporting spectacle, was inaugurated under the able facilitation of Hon. J. Prospero De Vera III, Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). He was joined by esteemed leaders of the Executive Organizing Committee, including Commissioner Richard Bachman of the Philippine Sports Commission, Gen. Henry Robinson Jr. representing Secretary Gilbert Teodoro of the Department of National Defense, Senator Francis Tolentino, and Senator Bong Go.
The event kicked off with a vibrant parade, marking the official start of the Luzon Leg of the Philippine ROTC Games 2023 on September 15, 2023. It is slated to continue its run until September 23, 2023, serving as a platform to foster the growth of a robust sports and ROTC program. The ultimate aim is to equip young athletes with the skills necessary to excel on the global stage.
One standout athlete, army cadet Jesylmay Licup hailing from the University of Baguio, left a trail of awe in her wake. Licup's lightning speed propelled her to a gold medal in the women's 100-meter dash, a feat made all the more impressive by her triumph over 15 fierce competitors from various regions. Her victory in the Luzon region proved her exceptional talent and determination.
Another Cordillera Highland Warrior who shone in the spotlight was Avygail Ummas, representing the Ifugao State University. Ummas demonstrated her expertise in the non-traditional single weapon category of arnis, seizing the gold medal in her division, further adding to the Cordillera region's growing tally of accolades.
Dennis Deo-ay, a Cadet from Benguet State University, showcased his prowess in the men's non-traditional single weapon category, securing a well-deserved bronze medal.
Among the HEI delegates from CAR who made their mark are the Abra State Institute of Science and Technology, Benguet State University, Kalinga State University, Ifugao State University, Mountain Province State Polytechnic College, and the University of Baguio.
The Cordillera delegates received unwavering support and guidance from the CHED-CAR team, led by the regional director, Dr. Demetrio P. Anduyan Jr. The team also included Ms. Prisilla Panangwe (CAO), along with the Education Supervisors, Dr. Christopher Depnag and Ms. Fely Ann Balusdan, as well as the Regional Sports Coordinator, Mr. Jerico Acierto, and Mr. Richard Mamanao.
With their stellar performance and dedicated support system, the Cordillera Highland Warriors have once again showcased the formidable athletic and leadership abilities that make them a force to be reckoned with on the national stage. The Commission on Higher Education - Cordillera proudly affirmed, "CAR (Cordillera Administrative Region) HEIs' (higher education institutions) athletes are leaving their mark, proving they are a formidable force in the sports arena."
The 2023 ROTC Games continue to inspire and develop the leadership skills and sporting talents of the youth, reinforcing the commitment to holistic growth and excellence among the Cordillera Highland Warriors and beyond.
