Young Caraga swimmers compete in Agusan Sur tune-up games
By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo
PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur (PIA) — The Philippine Aquatics Incorporated (PAI) Age-Group Swim Meet 2025, supported by the provincial government of Agusan del Sur (PGAS) and partner agencies, spearheaded in mid-October a two-day competition.
Held at the Democrito O. Plaza Aquatic Center in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, the October 18–19 event welcomed about 200 contingents from across the region, including the provinces of Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Sur, and Agusan del Norte, as well as the cities of Butuan, and Bayugan.
“This is the second time we have conducted the PAI Age-Group Swim Meet. The Board of Directors chose Agusan del Sur as the host because the Palarong Pambansa 2026 will also be held here,” said Victor Carmona, president of PAI-Caraga region.
“The activity is part of PAI’s initiative to promote and strengthen aquatic sports in the region, as well as to develop local athletes in preparation for larger national competitions,” he said.
“Through this kind of program, we can further develop swimming in the region. We need to train and nurture young swimmers so that by the time they reach high school, they can continue competing with us. With the collaborative support of the LGUs, we can truly make a difference,” he added.
Also joining the event were the qualifiers of ‘Batang Pinoy,’ a national sports program that aims to support and hone young athletes with great potential in sports.
“We need tune-up games like these to inspire our swimmers. With the strong support of the provincial government of Agusan del Sur (PGAS), we are grateful to have a very supportive LGU that gives its full backing to the PAI Age-Group Swim Meet 2025,” Carmona said.
The Agusan del Sur swim team emerged as the overall champion, followed by the Aqua Cruisers of Bayugan City in second place, and the Balangay Paddlers Swim Team of Butuan City in third place. The event also recognized the most outstanding swimmers in each age category.
Through this competition, organizers hope to encourage more young athletes to engage in swimming in preparation for future national events, Carmona said. (KKRG, PIA Agusan del Sur with the report from the PTV Agusan del Sur)
