by Rolando Lagpacan and Mark Angelo Damo

With the dazzling lights of the Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium, the evening sky of Ilocos Norte became the backdrop to a spectacular celebration as Pres. Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. delivered a rousing keynote speech at the Opening Program of Palarong Pambansa 2025, held tonight, May 24. In front of thousands of athletes, coaches, and DepEd top officials, the President’s words echoed with inspiration and pride, setting the tone for a week of athletic excellence and national unity.

In a stirring address, the President honored the athletes’ unwavering commitment to excellence: “Sa mga atletang nandito, bilib ako sa inyong galing, tibay at dedikasyon,” he said, drawing loud cheers from the crowd. Emphasizing the importance of resilience and courage, he added, “Magandang halimbawa kayo sa mga kabataang Pilipino.”

President Marcos’ message was both motivational and heartfelt, highlighting the government’s full support of the youth’s athletic dreams: “Ipagpatuloy niyo lang ang inyong mga pangarap. Ang gobyerno ay nasa likod ninyo.” He concluded with a powerful reminder that “Ang taong lumalaban ay hindi natatalo,” and urged all young Filipinos to persevere, stating, “Losers are those who do not try. Those who continue to fight are winners.”

The event opened with a spectacular cultural showcase titled “Lakas ni Lam-ang,” a vibrant interpretation of the Ilocano epic Biag ni Lam-ang, featuring over 3,000 teacher-performers from the Schools Division of Ilocos Norte. This was followed by “Lakas ng Kabayanihan,” a dramatization of the historic 1807 Basi Revolt, and “Lakas ni Teofilo,” a tribute to Olympian Teofilo Ildefonso.

The athletes’ parade brought color and energy to the stadium, followed by ceremonial highlights such as the Athletes’ Oath led by Gerick Jhon Flores, a record-holder in Asian baseball, and the Technical Officials’ Oath delivered by none other than Olympic gold medalist and Palaro 2025 Technical Director Hidilyn Diaz.

Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc extended a warm Ilocano welcome, setting the tone for a celebration of unity, youth, and sportsmanship.

A moving musical interlude featured Angeline Quinto performing patriotic songs “Ako ay Pilipino” and “Piliin Mo ang Pilipinas.”

The symbolic lighting of the Palarong Pambansa 2025 lightbeam was led by a roster of celebrated athletes, including Jemmuelle James Espiritu, Mark Anthony Domingo, Jesson Cid, Roger Tapia, and Eric Ang—each representing the strength and legacy of Filipino sports.

The program culminated in the debut performance of “United Archipelago,” the official Palarong Pambansa 2025 theme song, rendered by Ilocano pride Chase Pagtaconan.

A dazzling fireworks display lit up the Laoag skyline, marking a triumphant start to the country’s most anticipated youth sports event.

With the flame of competition now burning bright, the Palarong Pambansa 2025 begins not just with games—but with hope, heritage, and the enduring Filipino spirit.