Vice Gov. Bulut-Cunan urges youth to compete with pride at Sports Tournament opening

Vice Governor Kyle Mariah Chelsea S. Bulut-Cunan called on young athletes to carry their municipalities with pride and discipline during the opening ceremony of the Apayao 31st Founding Anniversary Sports Tournament on February 13 at the BGV Jr. Memorial Sports Center.

Delegations from the seven municipalities filled the venue, joined by provincial and municipal officials, national line agencies, uniformed personnel, students, and youth representatives.

In her address, the Vice Governor acknowledged the organizing committee and emphasized that the tournament brings together the province’s youth not only to compete, but to grow. She reminded the athletes that every game reflects not just skill, but character.

She also conveyed Governor Elias C. Bulut Jr.’s directive encouraging the youth to take the lead in planning and implementing Apayao Day activities, underscoring the importance of shared responsibility in provincial events.

Speaking on the significance of the Founding Anniversary, the Vice Governor said, “Apayao Day is more than a date on the calendar. It is a celebration of our history, our identity, and the legacy built by leaders and generations who worked for a strong and independent Apayao.”

The Vice Governor linked the sports tournament to the province’s 31st Founding Anniversary, commemorating Apayao’s creation through Republic Act No. 7878 authored by the late Elias K. Bulut Sr.

She reminded the athletes that winning and losing both carry lessons, gratitude in victory and humility in defeat, and likewise urged them to compete with respect and integrity.

As the games proceed, athletes are expected to compete fairly and uphold the spirit of unity that defines the celebration.