DepEd-6 Sends 608 Athletes to Palaro 2025, Eyes Crown

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

The Department of Education in Western Visayas (DepEd-6) is banking on 608 student-athletes to lead the region to a championship finish in the 65th Palarong Pambansa.

The premier national sporting event for elementary and high school athletes will be held in Ilocos Norte from May 25 to 30, with the closing ceremony on May 31.

This marks the first time in nearly six decades that the Palaro returns to Ilocos Norte.

The Western Visayas delegation arrived in the province early Tuesday, May 20.

Of the 608 athletes, 419 are from Panay Island, including Guimaras, and 189 are from Negros Occidental.

Leading the group is Iloilo province with 220 athletes, followed by Iloilo City with 95, Negros Occidental with 56, and Aklan with 46.

The full delegation also includes 152 coaches, assistant coaches, and chaperones; 249 committee members; and six honorary members.

DepEd-6 information officer Hernani Escullar Jr. said approximately PHP24 million was allocated for the region’s participation.

Escullar said they are aiming for a strong finish and hope to top this year’s competition.

“Our goal is to reach the number one spot in this year’s Palarong Pambansa,” he said.

In the 2024 edition, Western Visayas placed third overall with 56 gold, 41 silver, and 41 bronze medals, falling short of second place by just one gold medal behind Calabarzon.

The National Capital Region topped the 2024 medal tally with 98 gold medals.

“We dedicate our time and efforts to ensure that all athletes stay focused on their respective games and tournaments,” Escullar added.

“To our athletes, the Home of the Champions gives its full support to you and will continue to do so to ensure that your sacrifices are remembered in the days to come. Go, fight, win, go for gold.”

This year’s Palaro will host around 15,000 participants — student-athletes, coaches, and officials — from 20 athletic associations, including 18 regions, the National Academy of Sports, and Philippine Schools Overseas.

Participants will compete in 34 sports disciplines.