Paul David Visda and Mark Aaron Balbin

Making its long-awaited comeback to Ilocos Norte after 57 years, the 2025 Palarong Pambansa officially opened at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium in Laoag City, and will run from May 24 to 31.

Photo Courtesy of DepEd.

Now in its 65th edition, the Palarong Pambansa welcomed over 15,000 delegates from 20 athletic associations, including representatives from all 18 regions, the National Academy of Sports, and the Philippine Overseas Schools.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. also acknowledged the student-athletes in his keynote speech, commending their sacrifices despite lacking resources, motivating them to be the country's future representatives.

“Kami naman sa pamahalaan, hangga’t sa abot ng aming makakaya, ginagawa po namin ang lahat para matulungan kayong maging mahusay na manlalaro,” Marcos said.

The 2025 Palaro pays tribute to Teofilo Yldefonso, the first Filipino to win an Olympic medal, by featuring him in this year's logo. A mascot named "Filo," inspired by Yldefonso's moniker as the "Ilocano Shark," was also introduced.

This year’s games will feature 35 sports, with Weightlifting making its debut as a demonstration sport along with “Palaro ng Lahi” to promote the Filipino heritage.

After President Marcos’ speech, multiple notable Ilocano athletes, headlined by 2011 ASEAN Paralympics gold and double silver medalist Roger Tabia, gathered to light this year’s cauldron, made with solar-powered light beams, emphasizing the province’s reputation as Southeast Asia’s renewable energy capital.

Additionally, the Oath of Sportsmanship, along with the Technical Officials' and Coaches' Pledge, was led by Gerick Jhon Flores, the stolen bases leader in the 11th BFA U-12 Asian Baseball Championship, and Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz.