01/06/2026
Gold Comes Home: Guinabsan Rolls Out a Heroโs Welcome for Palarong Pambansa Medalists
BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte โ Pride and celebration swept across the Municipality of Buenavista on May 31 as residents, local officials, educators, and supporters joined a grand victory caravan to honor the municipality's medal-winning athletes from the Palarong Pambansa 2026: Palaro tu Agsur.
Leading the homecoming celebration was Shakera R. Yanon of Guinabsan National High School, who brought immense pride to Caraga after securing the gold medal in the Girls' 42-kg Wushu Sanda Category B division. Joining her were fellow Caraga Wushu athletes and bronze medalists Roelyn Cimafranca of Saint James High School, a former alumna of Guinabsan National High School, and Ruchen Celetona of Buenavista National High School.
The athletes were accompanied by their coach, Val Ulyssis Coruรฑa, and trainers Geraldo Damalerio Jr. and Mark Burias, whose guidance and commitment played a vital role in the team's success at the national competition.
The caravan traveled through various areas of the Municipality of Buenavista, allowing residents to personally congratulate and celebrate the athletes for their outstanding achievements. The event was supported by the Philippine National Police (PNP), which ensured the safety and orderly flow of the procession throughout the municipality.
Joining the celebration were Barangay Guinabsan officials led by SK Chairman Teresa Louella Menil, together with Kagawad Franel Yamit and Kagawad Marilou Gardose, as well as Guinabsan NHS SPTA President Cris Angela Acabo. Also present were the faculty and staff of Guinabsan National High School, who proudly welcomed home their student-athlete and fellow representatives of Buenavista.
The occasion was further highlighted by the presence of the school's supportive principal, Maria Cristina A. Quidlat, whose unwavering encouragement of both academic and athletic excellence has helped cultivate a culture of achievement among Guinabsan NHS learners.
More than a celebration of medals, the victory caravan recognized the dedication, sacrifices, and perseverance that carried these athletes to the national stage. Their accomplishments have not only brought honor to their schools and families but have also added another proud chapter to Buenavista's sporting history.
As the procession made its way across the municipality, the overwhelming support from the community reflected a shared pride in the athletes' successโa reminder that behind every medal stands a community that believes, supports, and celebrates its champions.
