Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. led the opening of the 3rd Congressional District Sports Association Meet 2025 at the Tultugan Stadium in the Municipality of Maasin today, November 18, 2025.
The sports event drew athletes, coaches, officials from the towns of Badiangan, Bingawan, Cabatuan, Calinog, Janiuay, Lambunao, Maasin, Mina and Pototan.
Governor Defensor stressed that sports development is one of his priorities under his Bulig Eskwela sang Probinsya (BES Probins) program.
“We have a good educational system in the province and we focus on the total development of our youth. And our sports program is very important for total youth development. That is why we have the varsity program, the developmental league, and this CDSA because we want more engagement and exposure for our athletes,” Defensor said.
The Iloilo Sports Development and Management Office (ISMDO) is implementing the Developmental League which hones the potential of Ilonggo athletes in the fields of basketball, volleyball, athletics, badminton, table tennis, tennis, swimming, and chess to prepare them for national competitions.
Iloilo’s Sports Varsity Program provides specialized training, coaching, and equipment to public school athletes, focusing on sports development at the grassroots.
The provincial government also gives incentives to Ilonggo athletes who took home medals during regional and national sports events.
The 3rd CDSA Meet was also graced by Vice Gov. Lee Ann Debuque, 3rd District Rep. Lorenz Defensor, Board Members Mark Palabrica and Jason Gonzales, and the mayors from the nine municipalities.
Professional Volleyball Player Jia Morado-De Guzman served as the keynote speaker, sharing her sports journey and inspiring the Ilonggo athletes to pursue their dreams with determination.
De Guzman is the Team Captain of Alas Pilipinas and setter for Creamline Cool Smashers. She was named Best Setter during the 2025 Asian Volleyball Confederation Nations Cup.
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