Goodwill Games with Tubod, LDN spices up October in Malaybalay

The third week of October witnessed cheers, camaraderie and strengthened relationships between Malaybalay and Tubod, Lanao del Norte. On October 21 to 23, 2001, the City Government of Malaybalay hosted the officials and employees of the provincial government of Lanao del Norte in the second round of Goodwill Games between the two LGUs.

Aimed at creating a lasting relationship and economic camaraderie, the two-day display of agility, skills and talents in various sports proved memorable to both LGUs.  The hosting of our City is a response to the previous invitation of governor Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo and his constituents which paved way to the Goodwill Games commencement in Tubod last September 2-4, 2011. This time around, the delegation from Lanao proved the hosts they are a formidable competition as they are friendly. A total of 149 delegates from Lanao enjoyed the sights and sounds of the City from the time they arrived. A motorcade from Dalwangan was spearheaded by KARANCHO where the merry music from the Bukidnon State University Brass Band enriched the background.

The Goodwill Games was officially started with a short opening program. In his opening message, vice mayor Victor P. Aldeguer expressed his appreciation of the goals of the goodwill games. For his part, City mayor Ignacio W. Zubiri narrated the purpose of the sportsfest, enlightening the public who came to witness the “battle” of LGUs. The mayor also said he is overwhelmed by the support of the City Government and so with the relentless efforts of the Lanao provincial government to fulfill the pact.

Lyndon Calica, information and community affairs head of the Lanao delegation, responded in behalf of their provincial governor. Calica said they were astounded with the welcome they received from the City Government, as well as the cityfolk. For his part, City sports coordinator Niko P. Aldeguer, led the recital of the oath of sportsmanship. Previous winner of the CSC Month Field Cheering Demonstration, the Redskins, performed their winning moves before the program ended.

The games of tug-o-war and sack race were then played where the players from Lanao emerged winners. Players were set forth for the next day for the games of lawn tennis, table tennis, volleyball and basketball. Both LGUs’ players battled it out and gave each game their best shot. Both LGUs tied at the end of the goodwill games scoring 6 - 6 in the overall of 12 games.

One of the highlights was the Mayor’s Night where our local chief executive slugged it out with both preparations for fun. Held at the Loiza’s Pavilion, the night was commenced with a fellowship dinner and capped with a farewell program. All the players and LGU representatives graced the event. Participants were soulfully entertained by the Bukidnon State University Choral and Dance Troupe. In spite of the absence of Gov. Dimaporo, the goodwill ball had been the most successful. A visit from City Mayor Sherwin Gatchalian of Valenzuela City surprised both the hosts and guests.