Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, May 24, 2025 – Bicol region’s delegation to the 2025 Palarong Pambansa is all geared up to compete in the highly anticipated national athletic meet, which is set to open on May 24, 2025 at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Stadium in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte.
The delegation, composed of 595 athletes and 144 coaches, arrived in Ilocos Norte on May 19, 2025 and is currently billeted at three billeting areas namely Pasil Elementary School, Nagbacalan Elementary School, and Paoay Lake National High School. The athletes train every day to stay in top shape for the week-long national competition.
DepEd Bicol Regional Director Gilbert T. Sadsad, who is also in Laoag to monitor and support the team, expressed high hopes for an improved performance from the Bicolano athletes this year. He emphasized that the athletes’ excellent physical conditioning and the strong support from various stakeholders play a crucial role in their readiness. He also extended his gratitude to the Bicol Regional Athletic Association (BRAA) for its commitment to preparing the delegation in the said athletic event.
Regional Sports Officer Dexter Sison shared that the athletes underwent intensive regional training at Albay Central School before departing for Laoag. The training not only improved the athletes’ individual skills but also promoted unity and teamwork among participants from different school division offices.
In previous editions of the Palarong Pambansa, Bicol placed 10th in Cebu in 2024 and 6th in Marikina in 2023. The region also received several special awards, including Cleanest, Greenest and Most Eco-Friendly Delegation Cleanest and PINAKA-MATATAG Delegation.
During a recent press briefing, Undersecretary Malcolm Garma announced that this year’s Palarong Pambansa will feature 20 regular sporting events, with pencat silat officially included as a regular sports event. Weightlifting will also debut as a demonstration sport, with Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz overseeing the competition.
To safeguard athletes from the extreme heat, with temperatures in Laoag reaching up to 45°C, Usec. Garma also mentioned that a window period will be implemented for both indoor and outdoor events starting 10: 00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Tournament officials have also been authorized by the Palaro Board to postpone or adjust schedules based on the heat index.
The 2025 Palarong Pambansa will run from May 24 to May 31, 2025.
Source: DepEd Bicol Region V