Bacolod city: Western Visayas emerged victorious in women's volleyball, defeating Soccsksargen with scores of 27-25, 21-25, 25-22, 25-12 to secure the gold medal at the National Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) Games held at the University of St. La Salle gym.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) claimed the bronze medal in the women's volleyball category by overcoming the Davao Region with scores of 25-17, 25-17, 25-20. In the men's volleyball division, Calabarzon secured the gold medal against Soccsksargen with scores of 26-24, 25-20, 25-13, while Central Visayas defeated Davao with scores of 25-21, 25-16, 25-22 to win the bronze at the Panaad Park and Sports Complex gym.
In athletics, Western Visayas' Kent Paul Burdan was awarded the men's senior MVP title after winning five gold medals. The athlete from Central Philippine University excelled in the 100m, 200m, and 400m races, and played a crucial role in both the 4x100m and 4x400m relay teams.
During the closing ceremony at the STI West Negros University gym, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio "Bong" Lacson handed over the PRISAA flag to Zamboanga City Councilor El King Omaga, representing Mayor Khymer Adan Olaso, alongside Councilor Elbert "Bong" Atilano.
Central Visayas dominated the medal tally in both the youth and senior divisions of the tournament, which was supported by Molten and Mikasa. In the youth division, Central Visayas amassed 93 golds, 43 silvers, and 63 bronzes. Western Visayas followed with 90 golds, 84 silvers, and 91 bronzes. Bicol Region and Calabarzon secured fourth and fifth places, respectively.
In the senior division, Central Visayas collected 132 golds, 73 silvers, and 55 bronzes, while Western Visayas took second place with 108 golds, 60 silvers, and 61 bronzes. Soccsksargen finished third with 80 golds, 65 silvers, and 54 bronzes. Other regions, including Calabarzon and Negros Island Region, also participated actively in the competition.
In another highlight, Ashley Amori Gamboa from Cagayan Valley was crowned Mutya ng PRISAA 2026 and also won the Best in Evening Gown award. Kin Alliyah Billote from Negros Island Region was the first runner-up, followed by Elisha Caramel Vilvar from Western Visayas, who won the Best in Sports Wear and Best in Casual Wear awards. Kate Arthel Belino from Calabarzon and Ashlay Eilinger from Ilocos Region were placed fourth and fifth, respectively.
