Ang Pahayagan

BALER, Aurora — Government agencies in Aurora demonstrated strong unity and operational readiness during the Send-Off Ceremony for the Aurora Provincial Athletic Association (APAA) Meet 2026 held on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at Camp Ravina, Barangay Sabang, Baler.

The activity was spearheaded by members of the Provincial Task Group on Security and Emergency Preparedness and Response (TG-SEPR) as part of comprehensive preparations to ensure safety, order, and rapid response capability for the province-wide sporting event scheduled from February 2 to 6, 2026. Thousands of athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators from Aurora’s municipalities are expected to participate.

In his message, Provincial DRRM Officer Engr. Amado Elson A. Egargue emphasized that the APAA Meet is more than a competition, describing it as a celebration of youth, discipline, unity, and provincial pride. He underscored the critical role of TG-SEPR in ensuring that the entire event remains safe, orderly, and well-coordinated.

Egargue also recognized the leadership of Police Colonel Robert L. Petate, Provincial Director of the Aurora Police Provincial Office (APPO), for strengthening inter-agency coordination toward a systematic and professional security operation throughout the duration of the games. He likewise acknowledged the full support of the Provincial Government under Governor Isidro P. Galban.

Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Erleo Villaros of DepEd Aurora noted that the Task Force operates as “One,” driven by a shared goal of maintaining safety and order not only for the APAA Meet but also for upcoming major events such as the Regional Festival of Talents, Regional Schools Press Conference, and the CLARAA Meet.

The ceremony opened with a prayer led by Rev. Fr. Rogelio Torre, followed by the blessing of patrol cars, ambulances, and deployed personnel, symbolizing both spiritual guidance and operational preparedness.

Personnel were deployed from all Municipal Police Stations, the Provincial Mobile Force Company, SWAT, Aurora PECU, Aurora Maritime Law Enforcement Team, Baler Airport Station, and the Highway Patrol Group. Partner agencies also participated, including the 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion of the Philippine Army, the Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Fire Protection, Provincial and Municipal DRRM Offices, and LGU force multipliers—demonstrating seamless inter-agency collaboration for public safety.

The Department of Health assured readiness to safeguard the health and welfare of participants. Meanwhile, DepEd Aurora, represented by Mr. Dante Parungao, CESO V, overall head of APAA 2026, expressed appreciation to APPO for initiating what is considered a first-of-its-kind security mobilization in APAA history.

In his closing remarks, Police Colonel Petate emphasized that the presence of deployed personnel is not only for security but also to ensure the safety of athletes and the smooth flow of activities. He reminded all personnel that they represent their respective agencies and the entire province, highlighting the importance of discipline, professionalism, and respect throughout the event.

The send-off ceremony underscored Aurora’s readiness to host large-scale events and reflected the strong partnership among agencies for the welfare of the youth and the public.

With reinforced security measures and strengthened coordination, the APAA Meet 2026 is set to proceed in the true spirit of sportsmanship, safety, and dedicated public service for the people of Aurora. (Jason de Asis)

📸 United in purpose, Aurora’s agencies stand ready to secure the APAA Meet 2026—ensuring safety, order, and seamless coordination for every athlete, coach, and spectator across the province. (Jason de Asis)