By Myprimadona R. Ganotisi and Leny G. Borromeo

Carasi, Ilocos Norte  – They came not just to compete, but to celebrate. The Carasi Cultural and Civic Center came alive as the Laro ng Lahi transformed traditional sports into a dynamic cultural showcase, with coaches and officials from various regions breathing life into Filipino heritage during the first day of the Palarong Pambansa 2025.

The event was designed to promote national identity through indigenous Filipino games such as kadang-kadang, sack race, and patintero, while also fostering camaraderie, sportsmanship, and appreciation for cultural diversity among the regional delegates.

Adding depth to the cultural immersion, participants were invited to join the town’s traditional Tadek dance, performed at the center stage by local indigenous groups accompanied by tribal music. The Tadek, a ceremonial dance of the Isneg and Tingguian peoples, symbolized both celebration and community spirit. Delegates actively participated, turning the performance into a shared expression of cultural pride and respect.

Hospitality was equally central to the day’s events. Participants were welcomed with a free breakfast, followed by native delicacies during snacks, including traditional kakanin. For lunch, each region enjoyed a specially curated menu showcasing the town’s native dishes, reflecting its culinary heritage.

Meanwhile, in the Kadang-Kadang race, the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) clinched first place with an impressive time of 42.59 seconds. Region IX finished a close second with 43 seconds, while Region X placed third at 46.50 seconds.

The Sack Race brought out intense competition, with Region X emerging as champion after clocking in at 39.88 seconds. CARAGA followed at 40.59 seconds, and Region IV-A (Calabarzon) secured third place.

In the strategic and fast-paced game of patintero, Cluster 2—comprising Regions IV-A, IV-B, V, and the National Capital Region (NCR)—claimed the top spot through effective teamwork. Cluster 3 (Regions VI, VII, VIII, and IX) took second place, while Cluster 1 (Regions I, II, III, and CAR) landed in third.

Beyond the physical contests, the Laro ng Lahi served as a meaningful platform for cultural preservation and national unity. The sound of laughter, the rhythm of tribal drums, and the vibrant interaction among regions created an atmosphere of celebration rooted in Filipino identity.