BY: HUBERT BALAGEO (UNIVERSITY OF BAGUIO INTERN)

Eighteen basketball teams are set to compete in the third Mayor Kurt’s Cup, which officially kicked off with a parade attended by local officials and participating players.

Mayor Kurt Walter Martin led the ceremonial jump ball, marking the start of the tournament aimed at promoting sports among the youth and keeping them away from vices.

Aside from fostering sportsmanship, the event also serves as an opportunity to strengthen camaraderie and unity among Pugo residents.

As the competition progresses, organizers anticipate intense matchups leading to the championship round. Players are reminded to uphold discipline and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.

Fifty students from two schools in Pugo successfully completed a three-day School Emergency Response Team (SERT) training, equipping them with essential skills in handling disasters such as fires and earthquakes.

During a flag-raising ceremony on Monday, March 10, the students were awarded certificates of completion, personally handed to them by Pugo Mayor Kurt Walter Martin.

The training, organized by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), aims to enhance disaster preparedness among the youth, especially during Fire Prevention Month.

Officials hope to expand the program to reach more students and instill a culture of safety and readiness in the community.