DepEd CARAGA CANCELS CARAGA REGION ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION MEET DUE TO COVID-19 SCARE

BUTUAN CITY – Due to the increasing number of confirmed cases of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Philippines, many activities and events are affected. In compliance with the Memorandum Order number 034 issued by the Department of Education (DepEd) last Monday, DepEd Caraga directed the cancellation of all regional meets, including the Caraga Regional Athletic Association Meet (CRAAM).

However, the coaches and the parents pleaded to push through the activity, because of the sentiments of the athletes in Siargao-LGU, where the sporting event is supposed to hold. Caraga region appealed to the cancellation but was denied by Secretary Leonor Briones.

The appeal gave the athletes hope and decided to still travel to Siargao despite the announcement. Athletes of an estimated 5 divisions are said to have gone to the venue. But as the appeal is dismissed, they are expected to go back.

The cancellation of the said competition means it will not be happening anytime this year as rescheduling will not be conducted. With this, million worth of expenses for the preparation will be forfeited.

However, DepEd Caraga pointed out that their priority is the safety of the athletes.

Meanwhile, it is the first recorded cancellation of the Regional Athletic Meet in Caraga.