Cebu City's athletic dominance is being challenged significantly

Cebu City has been the top champion in the Central Visayas Regional Athletic Association (CVIRAA) for many years. However, their dominance is now being challenged. At the recent CVIRAA 2025 event in Bayawan City, competition was tougher than usual. Bohol Province performed exceptionally well in athletics, winning 23 gold medals in both elementary and secondary divisions. In comparison, Cebu City only secured two gold medals in those categories. This performance helped Bohol achieve 61 golds overall, finishing in second place. Cebu City, while still leading with 105 golds, saw a decrease from last year's total. Cebu City's Division Sports Officer, Francis Ramirez, expressed concern over the shrinking lead of the Niños. He noted the need to reevaluate their sports programs to maintain their title. Ramirez indicated that a sports summit might be necessary due to these alarming trends. The secondary boys' basketball results also shocked many, with Tagbilaran City defeating Cebu City. This defeat raised doubts about Cebu City's strength in sports and suggested that other divisions might be surpassing them. Ramirez acknowledged these challenges, stating that rival divisions might be taking tips from Cebu City's own programs. Compounding these issues is the upcoming departure of Negros Island divisions, which will form a new region and hold their own competitions. This change is expected to reduce the divisions in CVIRAA from 20 to 12, impacting medal opportunities for Cebu City. Ramirez emphasized the urgency for Cebu City to adapt in various sports, especially where the Negros divisions have excelled. Despite facing these challenges, he acknowledged some improvements in other sports from Cebu City. However, the pressure to maintain their top position is mounting, with competitors like Bohol and Cebu Province closing in.