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ILOILO CITY — The Department of Education in Western Visayas (DepEd-6) is setting its sights on the overall championship in the 65th Palarong Pambansa as it sends a 608-strong team to Ilocos Norte.
The regional delegation, composed of elementary and secondary student-athletes, arrived in Ilocos Norte on Tuesday, May 20, ahead of the national games slated from May 25 to May 30, with the closing ceremonies set for May 31.
This year marks a historic return of the Palaro to Ilocos Norte, nearly 60 years since it last hosted the country's biggest school-based sporting event.
Of the 608 athletes, 419 come from Panay Island and Guimaras, while 189 are from Negros Occidental.
Iloilo province leads the pack with 220 athletes, followed by Iloilo City with 95, Negros Occidental with 56, and Aklan with 46.
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Accompanying the athletes are 152 coaches, assistant coaches, and chaperones, along with 249 committee staff and six honorary members.
DepEd-6 information officer Hernani Escullar Jr. told The Manila Times on Tuesday, May 20, that around P24 million has been earmarked to support its campaign to top this year's edition.
"Our goal is to reach the number one spot in this year's Palarong Pambansa," he said.
"We dedicate our time and efforts to ensure that all athletes will be focused on their respective games and tournaments," he added.
Last year, Western Visayas finished third overall, tallying 56 gold, 41 silver, and 41 bronze medals — just one gold medal short of overtaking Calabarzon for second place. The National Capital Region claimed the 2024 championship with 98 golds.
"To our athletes, the Home of the Champions is giving all-out support to you, and we will continue to do this to ensure that your sacrifices will be cherished in the morrows to come. Go fight, win, go for gold," he continued.
The 2025 Palaro is expected to draw over 15,000 participants from 20 delegations, including representatives from the country's 18 regions, the National Academy of Sports, and Philippine Schools Overseas, competing in 34 sports disciplines.
