17K participants gather for 65th Palarong Pambansa in Ilocos Norte, May 25-30

Starting May 25, around 17,000 participants from across the Philippines will gather in Ilocos Norte for the 65th Palarong Pambansa, a sports event that runs until May 30.

Ilocos Norte is hosting the games for the second time, following its previous hosting in 1968. This year's theme is 'Nagkakaisang Kapuluan,' emphasizing national unity through sports.

The Opening Ceremony will take place on May 24 at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium in Laoag City, where President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Education Secretary Sonny Angara, and local officials are expected to attend.

Preparations for the event have been ongoing, with venue inspections completed and inter-agency coordination underway to ensure safety and organization.

The games will feature regular sports such as archery, badminton, basketball, boxing, chess, football, gymnastics, swimming, and volleyball. Weightlifting will be a demonstration sport, while kickboxing and futsal are exhibition events.

Hosting the Palarong Pambansa is anticipated to boost Ilocos Norte's economy by supporting tourism, transportation, and small businesses in the region.