By PR | 11:50 PM December 02, 2025
TAGBILARAN CITY – The provincial government of Bohol, led by Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado, paid tribute to two outstanding Boholano student-athletes who captured gold medals in the 14th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) School Games held in Brunei Darussalam from November 20 to 28, 2025.
The athletes were formally recognized during a courtesy visit at the New Capitol on December 1, a testament to the province’s pride in their achievements and their growing role in advancing youth sports excellence in Bohol.
Joining the governor were Board Member Dionisio Joseph Balite, Sangguniang Kabataan Provincial Federated President Lawrence Xavier Ancla, Educational Development Center officer-in-charge Jaypee Ian Morgia, and Provincial Youth Development Office (PYDO) Sports section head John Gelvi Bongato.
Jhul Ian Cañalita delivered one of the best showings of the regional meet, capturing gold in the 3000-meter run and breaking the ASEAN School Games record with a time of 8:47.
Ma. Emely Balunan also struck gold in the 800-meter run, clocking in at 2:19.08 and strengthening Bohol’s reputation as a cradle of rising athletic talent.
Aumentado praised the young athletes, noting that their triumphs reflect the resilience and determination of Boholano youth.
“Ang ilang kalampusan nag-abli sa daghang oportunidad ngadto sa masanag nga kaugmaon. Maka-proud ang inyong achievement,” he said.
Following the Games, Cañalita extended his gratitude to the provincial government through a social media post.
The Capitol stressed that the athletes’ success mirrors the impact of its Strategic Governance Roadmap, which seeks to fortify grassroots and youth sports development across the province.
The government also acknowledged the key role of Coaches Jojo Orcullo and Jonas Acierda, the unwavering support of the municipal government of Garcia Hernandez, and the partnership of the Department of Education Bohol Division.
In recognition of their international victories, PYDO will provide incentives to both athletes to further encourage sporting excellence.
The province of Bohol celebrates these young champions, whose achievements continue to inspire the next generation. Their victories stand as proof of what strong community support and grassroots sports programs can achieve—elevating Boholano athletes to the global stage and bringing honor to the Philippines’ first and only Unesco Global Geopark.
