The 2025 Palarong Pambansa officially kicked off on Saturday at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium with a vibrant celebration of sports and cultural heritage, as host province Ilocos Norte paid tribute to the famous Ilocano epic Biag ni Lam-ang during the opening ceremony.
A teacher from Bagbag Solsona National High School, explained the significance of the epic hero Lam-ang, who was born with supernatural strength and a sense of justice that led him to avenge his father’s death and emerge as a celebrated warrior among his people.
“This epic tells the story of Lam-ang, who was born already strong and able to speak. It highlights themes of heroism, camaraderie, and resilience—qualities that are closely tied to both epic tales and sportsmanship,” Agustin said in Filipino.
The ceremony featured a dramatic performance by Ilocos Norte students, while more than 3,000 teachers, including Agustin, delivered a synchronized speech choir in the local dialect, narrating Lam-ang’s story as a symbol of strength and unity—a fitting prelude to the nationwide sporting event.
Agustin expressed pride and excitement over the return of the Palarong Pambansa to her hometown for the first time since 1968. “It’s a huge honor to witness and be part of this national sporting event here in Ilocos Norte,” she said.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. also attended the opening ceremony and delivered a message of encouragement to the student-athletes, highlighting the importance of nurturing local talent and aiming for global excellence.
“As your government, we are doing everything we can to help you become outstanding athletes,” Marcos said. “Today, you are competing in the Palarong Pambansa. Tomorrow, you may be representing the Philippines in the Asian Games or even the Olympics.”
He paid tribute to elite Filipino athletes such as Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz, gymnast Carlos Yulo, pole vaulter EJ Obiena, and boxing legend Manny Pacquiao. Marcos emphasized that future champions may very well rise from this year’s pool of young competitors.
Local sports icons like former UST basketball standout Ed Daquiaog and Olympic shooter Eric Ang took part in lighting the solar-powered torch, symbolizing the official start of the games.
The 2025 Palarong Pambansa marks not only a return to tradition but also a bold step toward blending heritage with national sports development, as Ilocos Norte welcomes athletes from across the country in a celebration of talent, unity, and pride.
