31/05/2026
๐๐ก๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐ฏ๐๐ซ๐ฒ ๐๐ซ๐ซ๐จ๐ฐ ๐
๐๐๐ฅ๐ฌ ๐๐ข๐ค๐ ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐
There is a different kind of energy in the air when athletes compete in familiar surroundings. The landscapes are known, the faces in the crowd recognizable, and the sense of belonging unmistakable.
For the Caraga archers, competing in the Palarong Pambansa is no longer just about stepping onto a national stage. This time, it is about doing so on home soil, where every arrow released carries a deeper sense of pride.
The 2026 Palarong Pambansa in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur became more than just a competition. It turned into a moment of growth and reflection for the team as they faced skilled archers from across the country.
Among the standouts was Lyndy Caponpon, who rose to 10th place in the FITA Round, a significant improvement from her previous ranking. Her performance showed the team's progress and determination.
Not only that, Roxelier Jamil, a first-time participant, impressed with a 15th place finish, while Mike Rilex Salinas climbed to 18th place, improving from last year. Gerald Eian Mondejar, also new to the competition, gained valuable experience despite finishing 41st.
"Pride nako nga Palaro ko, two-timer ko... tapos pride pud nako siya nga maka-experience ko ug ing-ani kay dili baya tanan maka-experience ug Palaro gyud. Ug gusto ka ma-Palaro, need pud nimo ug consistent nga training-mao nang pride nako nga maka-play as player sa Caraga," Salinas expressed.
For him, a two-time Palaro participant, the experience was something he deeply valued. He shared his pride in being part of the competition, knowing that not everyone is given the chance to reach the Palaro stage.
Alongside that, Coach Mark Nel Guerrero also expressed his pride in hosting the event in his hometown.
"Ang pride gayud kay diri baya sa Talacogon gi-held, at the same time taga Talacogon pa gayud ang coach," he said, noting how the sport has evolved into a more organized event.
Before becoming a coach, Guerrero himself was a Palaro archer during his high school years, competing twice and guided by his former coach, Sir Tito Mondejar.
From using simpler equipment like bare bows to witnessing today's advanced setup, he has seen the sport grow firsthand-making his role now as a mentor even more meaningful.
In the end, what made this Palaro special was not just the competition, but the pride of being part of something bigger-representing Caraga with heart, shooting their arrows in a place that already felt like victory.