ILOILO — A team of six rescuers from Oton, Iloilo, powered through a punishing obstacle course and emerged as the second‑best emergency response squad in Western Visayas. The Oton MDRRMO claimed silver in the “Paghangkat it Busalian” obstacle race at the 3rd Regional Rescuelympics on July 26, 2026.
A Test of Grit and Teamwork
The race, whose name means “Challenge of the Champions,” spanned nine brutal stations across San Jose de Buenavista. Rescuers swam, climbed, carried heavy loads, and navigated ropes under the summer sun. The Oton team tackled each obstacle with a rhythm born of countless drills and a deep trust in one another.
Mayor Sofronio L. Fusin Jr. had given the team the green light and the resources to compete, believing their experience would shine. The rescuers trained tirelessly in the weeks leading up to the event, often after long shifts responding to local emergencies. Their second‑place finish was a direct result of that sacrifice and dedication.
A Race That Mirrors Real Life
The Rescuelympics are not a casual sports festival. Every obstacle simulates a real disaster scenario—from pulling victims through water to ascending high‑angle structures. The “Paghangkat it Busalian” race is designed to push responders to their physical and mental limits, ensuring they can perform when actual lives are on the line.
Oton’s team members—Elbert Gadian, Prologo Adrian, Arnel Peregil, Gary Vhon Burgos, Riz Lie Paragsa Balinas, and Mary Jaranilla Dominado—showed exceptional endurance and coordination. Ground support from Sandy Soltes and Juncy G. Natiag kept the team focused and motivated between stations. The combination of athleticism and emotional support proved to be a winning formula.
Pride of Oton, Pride of Iloilo
The Oton MDRRMO carried the flag of the entire province of Iloilo. Competing against teams from Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, and various national agencies, they proved that a municipal unit can stand shoulder‑to‑shoulder with larger, better‑funded organizations. The ₱25,000 cash prize and commemorative plaque were welcomed rewards, but the real prize was the validation of their skills.
Back home, news of the silver finish spread quickly through the municipality. Neighbors congratulated the rescuers, and local officials expressed pride in the achievement. The team’s success has inspired other young Ogtonganons to consider careers in public safety and emergency response.
Preparedness Beyond the Competition
The Regional Rescuelympics, organized by the Provincial Government of Antique and the Office of Civil Defense Region VI, is the region’s premier disaster resilience event. It sharpens the capabilities of responders while fostering inter‑agency cooperation. For Oton, the experience gained will directly benefit their community during typhoons, floods, and other emergencies.
The team has already begun reviewing their performance, identifying areas for improvement ahead of next year’s competition. Their eyes are set on the gold, but their hearts remain fixed on their duty: protecting the people of Oton. The silver medal is not the end of the journey but a milestone along a path of continuous service.
