ILOCOS NORTE, PHILIPPINES – More than 15,000 athletes, coaches, and officials have arrived in Ilocos Norte for the 65th Palarong Pambansa, which runs from May 24 to 31. With the theme “Nagkakaisang Kapuluan,” this year’s games promote unity, sustainability, and athlete-centered experiences.
Twenty delegations will compete, representing all 18 Philippine regions, along with the National Academy of Sports (NAS) and the Philippine Schools Overseas (PSO). The event kicks off with the “Parada ng mga Atleta” on May 24 in Laoag City.
A local legend is being honored this year: the official event logo pays tribute to Teofilo Yldefonso, the “Ilocano Shark,” the first Filipino and Southeast Asian Olympic medalist, and a World War II hero. Inabel weavers from Paoay crafted pieces featuring Yldefonso’s likeness.
Athletes will participate in a wide array of sports, from mainstream competitions like basketball and swimming to traditional and martial arts such as arnis, pencak silat, and wushu. This year also debuts weightlifting as a demonstration sport and introduces kickboxing and girls’ futsal as exhibition events.
Beyond sports, delegates are invited to explore the province through complimentary tours from May 28 to 30. These excursions will take them to popular tourist spots in both northern and southern Ilocos Norte, with shuttle services departing from the provincial capitol.