Cheers and excitement filled Mangaldan, Pangasinan, as over 5,000 athletes competed in the Pangasinan II Division Meet 2025.

The multi-day sports event, which runs until January 26, brings together elementary and secondary students from Districts 4, 5, and 6.

One of the highlights was the 800-meter run, where Chloe Ramos, a Grade 7 student from Pangaoan Integrated School in Rosales, led her event.

“Pinagti-training kami ng teacher namin. Tuwing recess, lagi kaming nagpapraktis,” Ramos said.

She aims to qualify for the Region 1 Athletic Association Meet.

Athletes also competed in events like the long jump, showcasing their skills despite the heat.

Some runners struggled with exhaustion but were assisted by event officials immediately.

Organizers emphasized that the meet is not just about winning but also about fostering camaraderie and sportsmanship.

“Ang objective ay hindi yung manalo, matalo. Ang objective natin, panatilihing may camaraderie ang bawat isa,” Danilo Eden, Assistant Principal of Mangaldan National High School, said.

“Vision ng DepEd na kung saan mga competencies na itinuturo natin sa kanila, mga values, napasama dito sa sports para mas maging mahusay sila bilang isang indibidwal,” Eduardo Castillo, Principal of Mangaldan National High School, added.

In addition to Mangaldan National High School, other venues like Mangaldan Central School and David National High School are hosting events.

The Division Meet serves as a platform to develop students’ non-academic skills and prepare them for higher-level competitions.