Ilocos Norte officially opened the 65th edition of the Palarong Pambansa on May 24 with a grand cultural and athletic celebration at the Ferdinand E. Marcos (FEM) Memorial Stadium in Laoag City, showcasing the province’s rich cultural heritage while marking its historic return as host after 57 years.

With the theme “Nagkakaisang Kapuluan” or United Archipelago, the event gathered over 15,000 student-athletes and officials from all 17 regions, as well as delegations from Philippine Schools Overseas and the National Academy of Sports for the kickoff of the country’s largest sporting event.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, and Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc led the official opening program. In his message, President Marcos lauded the dedication and discipline of the young athletes, stating,

“Hindi madali ang inyong pinagdaanan. ‘Yung oras na ipapahinga ninyo na lang dapat, eh gagamitin ninyo pa sa practice at saka sa training. Kaya naman, kaming lahat bilib sa inyo, sa inyong galing, sa inyong tibay, at sa inyong dedikasyon.”

Meanwhile, Gov. Marcos Manotoc emphasized the province’s commitment to athlete welfare and environmental sustainability in his welcome remarks.

“For this ‘Palaro’, we emphasize two core themes. First, being athlete-centered — these Games are for our student-athletes, and we want to ensure their comfort and convenience. Second, sustainability — as the Renewable Energy Capital of the Philippines, we are committed to ensuring these games are ecologically sound,” he said.

He also paid tribute to Ilokano Olympic swimmer and war hero Teofilo Yldefonso, the symbolic icon of this year’s Palaro logo.

“Through this Palaro, may Teofilo Yldefonso be commemorated and celebrated. And may our next generation carry forward his legacy, heroism, and nationalism,” he added.

The opening ceremony featured performances and ceremonial highlights, including the Oath of Coaches and Technical Officials led by Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz, while rising baseball athlete Gerick Jhon Flores delivered the Oath of Athletes.

The cultural presentation titled “PALAKASAN: Tales of Filipino Strength” showcased stories of valor and resilience drawn from Filipino athletes and heroes. It included the segment “Lakas ni Lam-ang,” which brought to life the Ilokano epic Biag ni Lam-ang. “Lakas ng Kabayanihan” dramatized the Basi Revolt of 1807, underscoring the Ilokano people's fierce resistance and enduring spirit. Closing the presentation, “Lakas ni Teofilo” honored the strength and spirit of the Ilokano Shark, Teofilo Yldefonso, the first Filipino Olympic medalist and war hero whose legacy continues to inspire national pride and athletic excellence.

One of the evening’s highlights was the ceremonial lighting of the IN Palaro 2025 Lightbeam, led by Ilokano athletes who have brought honor to the province in national and international events.

With the Games officially open, Ilocos Norte strengthens its position as the premier Sports Hub of the North—driving athletic excellence, championing sustainability, and celebrating cultural pride on the national stage. # Allyssa Charisse Magno, PGIN-CMO