Champions Beyond the Field: Learner-Athlete Protection Team Safeguards Delegates at the 2025 Division Athletic Meet

The 2025 Division Athletic Meet, held at Nasipit District, brought together hundreds of young athletes eager to compete, excel, and bring pride to their schools. Yet beyond the thrill of competition, a dedicated team stood guard to ensure that every learner-athlete from RTR enjoyed a safe, respectful, and child-friendly environment.

Housed at Culit Elementary School, the RTR delegates were supported by an exceptional group of Learner-Athlete Rights and Protection Officers: YOLO Coordinator Jayson Patalinghug, Peer Health Navigator representative Dovey Quezon, District Nurse Maria Teresita Espino, School Clinic In-Charge Uldarico Dequilla, and Teacher-Representative Dennis Delarmente.

Protecting Learners, Empowering Athletes

For YOLO Coordinator Jayson Patalinghug, safeguarding learners is not just an assignment but a calling. With his background in youth empowerment and advocacy, he ensured that all policies on learner protection were understood and practiced—reminding all delegations that safety and dignity come before medals.

Working alongside him, Dovey Quezon, the Peer Health Navigator representative, provided a youth-centered approach, creating a safe space where athletes could express concerns about stress, anxiety, conflict, or health issues. Her presence encouraged students to speak up without fear or hesitation.

The Medical Backbone of the Delegation

District Nurse Maria Teresita Espino played a crucial role in addressing medical needs, ensuring immediate response to injuries, fatigue, and health emergencies. With her expertise, athletes and coaches were reassured that professional care was always within reach.

Supporting her was School Clinic In-Charge Uldarico Dequilla, who monitored the athletes' health conditions daily, provided first-aid attention, and helped maintain a safe and hygienic environment in the billeting area.

Bridging Communication and Ensuring Accountability

Teacher-representative Dennis Delarmente served as the vital link between coaches, officials, and the protection team. He ensured that concerns were resolved promptly and all child protection guidelines were strictly followed.

Creating a Child-Friendly Athletic Experience

Throughout the competition week, the team conducted regular rounds, checked on accommodations, monitored safety protocols, and addressed reports related to bullying, misconduct, or violations of child-friendly policies. Their vigilance and compassion helped prevent issues before they escalated.

Their presence emphasized DepEd’s core commitment: Athletic events must uplift every learner, not endanger them.

Unsung Heroes of the Meet

While athletes chased victory on the field, the Learner-Athlete Rights and Protection Team quietly worked in the background—ensuring that every child was protected, every concern was heard, and every need was addressed.

Thanks to the leadership of Jayson Patalinghug, the compassion of Dovey Quezon, and the professionalism of Nurses Espino and Dequilla, along with the support of Teacher Delarmente, the RTR delegation experienced a safe, supportive, and empowering athletic meet.

Their efforts made the 2025 Division Athletic Meet not only an event of sportsmanship but a testament to what true learner-centered service looks like.