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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Palarong Pambansa 2025: DepEd highlights athlete safety, local unity in Ilocos Norte

Palarong Pambansa 2025: DepEd highlights athlete safety, local unity in Ilocos Norte

Published May 29, 2025 03:17 pm
Palarong Pambansa 2025 in Ilocos Norte (DepEd photo)
Palarong Pambansa 2025 in Ilocos Norte (DepEd photo)
As the 2025 Palarong Pambansa heats up in Ilocos Norte, the Department of Education (DepEd) on Thursday, May 29, reaffirmed its commitment to athlete safety and an exceptional tournament experience.
Taking place from May 24 to 31, this year’s Palaro brings together thousands of student-athletes from across the country.
It is the first time the event is being hosted on President Marcos’ home turf, adding national pride and local excitement to the annual school-based sports spectacle.
“We're prepared for everything. Of course, we're considering all possible scenarios," said Education Secretary and Palaro Board Chairperson Sonny Angara in a mix of English and Filipino.
"I'm grateful to our DepEd family and, of course, to the local governments here in Ilocos Norte—they've been very supportive,” he added.
Full coordination for athlete welfare
Angara, who has been closely monitoring preparations and logistics, emphasized the importance of weekly oversight and real-time coordination with national and local stakeholders.
DepEd Undersecretary for Operations and Palaro Secretary General Malcolm Garma echoed the same commitment, noting the extraordinary cooperation between DepEd, the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, local government units (LGUs), and key partner agencies.
“More than infrastructure, it’s the community support and national pride that make this Palaro extraordinary,” Garma added.
Health and safety: Top priority
A standout feature of Palarong Pambansa 2025 is its robust health and safety framework.
All participating athletes and delegation members were required to present medical certificates before arriving.
Upon arrival, DepEd said each individual undergoes health screening and “Fit to Play” assessments conducted by medical professionals.
DepEd also stated that every competition venue features first aid and hydration stations, on-site ambulances, and medical teams trained in psychological first aid.
To ensure psychosocial support, Learner Rights and Protection Desks have been set up in billeting and sports venues, ready to provide immediate intervention when needed.
Responding to heat and infrastructure needs
With extreme heat and limited water supply being perennial challenges during large gatherings, DepEd and LGUs have upgraded electrical infrastructure in billeting schools, coordinated with the Bureau of Fire Protection for potable water delivery, and adjusted competition schedules to avoid peak heat hours between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
These changes apply even to indoor games, especially those in venues with poor ventilation.
Food safety and cleanliness campaigns
To prevent health issues, athletes have been advised to eat only from DepEd-certified food vendors. Strict compliance with WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) protocols is enforced, along with policies banning smoking, vaping, and alcohol use within competition and billeting zones.
Community and private sector support
DepEd noted that local communities and private partners have stepped up by donating essentials such as refreshments and merchandise.
A gold standard for future Palaro events
As Palarong Pambansa 2025 wraps up on May 31, DepEd looks forward to leaving a lasting legacy of discipline, excellence, and national unity.
DepEd hopes the “passion of the athletes, the hospitality of the hosts, and the discipline of the organizers will set a new gold standard” for future editions of the Palarong Pambansa.

Related Tags

Palarong Pambansa 2025 DepEd Ilocos Norte student-athletes school sports Philippines Sonny Angara sports safety Philippines youth sports events President Marcos
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