Santo Domingo 2026 Games volunteers begin integration; university apologizes for flag mishap

Volunteers for the XXV Central American and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo held their first integration day at the Club Mauricio Báez. The ceremony featured the national anthem, remarks from organizers including executive director Thomas Polanco (spoken by Franklin Ortega) and Committee President José Monegro, and the debut of the Games mascot COLI. Attendees were presented with the official volunteer uniform and kits, and veteran athletes Gabriel Mercedes and Luisito Pie highlighted the spirit of service.

The Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo (UASD) issued an apology after a deteriorated Dominican flag was displayed at the Faculty of Engineering. In the same communication, the university promoted the launch of the Games’ official song “Corazón de Fiesta,” released with a vibrant music video celebrating the event’s energy and identity.