The much anticipated Gov Niño Cup Road Games, a major component of this year’s Davao Oriental Games in celebration of the 57th Araw ng Davao Oriental and 1st Kabilin Festival, officially commenced on June 11, at the Provincial Capitol Covered Court with teams representing Davao Oriental’s 11 Local Government Units all excited to play in a range of exciting sporting competitions, including basketball and volleyball. This year, the games will also include a special staging of the Mindanao Open Taekwondo Championship and Summer Junior Lawn Tennis.
The Gov Niño Cup Road Games, through the Provincial Sports and Youth Development Office, have been carefully planned and designed to support the sports development program of Davao Oriental and boost participation from all municipalities and cities in the province. This unique approach is aimed at fostering unity and pride among the residents while showcasing the values of discipline, perseverance, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence.
Governor Niño Uy, during his opening ceremony message, said “The Gov Niño Cup Road Games is an intentional strategy and special approach aimed at developing a sense of unity and pride among the residents of our province.”
He said that the goal of the game is to foster a sense of pride and unanimity among our communities’ residents that goes beyond both visible and invisible boundaries.
“We are one province, one community, and through these games, we celebrate our collective spirit and determination,” the governor added.
The Gov Niño Cup Road Games is expected to be an exciting sporting expedition that will visit multiple towns in the province, giving local spectators and fans a chance to witness the action in their own neighborhoods. As a result of this novel strategy, Oriental Dabawenyos are expected to feel more connected and proud of themselves by supporting their individual teams and demonstrating their steadfast support.
The tournament games will continue throughout this whole month with the awarding ceremonies slated on June 27. By Francis Jay Butulan | Photos by JB Rain, Redd Bayron
