The playing field is set for another season of school rivalry and camaraderie as eight colleges and universities in Calapan City came together for the opening of the 21st Calapan City Athletic Association (CCAA) on September 9, 2026.
Hosted by Mindoro State University (MinSU), this year’s CCAA brings together student-athletes from ACLC College of Calapan, City College of Calapan, Divine Word College of Calapan, Luna Goco Colleges, MinSU Calapan Campus, Southwestern College of Maritime Business and Technology, and St. Mark Arts and Training Institute.
For the participating athletes, the season is about more than the games ahead. It is a chance to represent their schools, test themselves against fellow student-athletes, and build friendships beyond the playing court.
In her message, Dr. Enya Marie D. Apostol, University President said that the CCAA represents an opportunity for students to develop discipline, friendship and courage while carrying the name of their institutions into competition.
“Ngayong araw, hindi lamang natin binubuksan ang panibagong season ng CCAA, kung hindi binuksan din natin ang isa sa mga pangarap ng Lungsod ng Calapan,” Apostol said, referring to the newly inaugurated Calapan City Coliseum, which served as the venue for the opening.
She also reminded the athletes that success in sports is not measured solely by strength, speed, ability or the number of victories.
In sports, she said, strength, speed, skill and victories matter—but athletes should remember that they compete not only for themselves but also for their schools.
As host institution, MinSU is joining the competition with its Green Knights, adding another chapter to the University’s participation in the city’s inter-collegiate sports tradition.
Homegrown athletes inspire the next generation
The opening also brought two of Calapan’s homegrown sports personalities closer to the young athletes who are now following their own dreams in sports.
Grandmaster Rogelio “Joey” Antonio Jr., a 13-time Philippine Open chess champion and Adamson standout Jaochen Gail Cuenca joined the opening of the CCAA in the newly completed Calapan City Coliseum.
Both are natives of Calapan City.
Meanwhile, volleyball star Alyssa “The Phenom” Valdez served as the guest of honor and shared lessons from her own journey in competitive sports.
Valdez reminded the athletes that they do not have to be perfect to pursue their goals. She urged them to value character as much as talent, enjoy the game and, most importantly, learn to rise after setbacks.
“Your talent can take you somewhere, but your character determines how far you will go,” Valdez said.
She also reminded the athletes not to lose sight of why they started playing.
“The greatest athletes aren't the ones who never fall; they are the ones who fall and get back up,” she said.
A new venue for a growing sports community
The CCAA opening coincided with the blessing and inauguration of the Calapan City Coliseum, which was formally opened to the public.
Hon. Salvador “Doy” Leachon, City Mayor said the new facility is intended to give athletes a place to train, compete and pursue their potential, while also providing a space where coaches, teachers and families can support young athletes.
“It is more than just concrete; it will serve as a home for training, for dreamers, for athletes to reach their potential, and for coaches, teachers, and parents to support their children,” Leachon said.
He said the city government would continue investing in sports and youth development, emphasizing that victories should be matched by good character.
“Winning in sports is important, but becoming a better person is the ultimate victory,” he said.
The opening was attended by 1st District Representative Arnan C. Panaligan, 2nd District Representative Alfonso “PA” Umali, Provincial Vice Gov. Antonio “CA Jojo” Perez, members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, the Sangguniang Panlungsod led by Vice Mayor Bim Ignacio, and institution leaders of participating schools. (jdtdc)
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