LEGAZPI CITY – The Department of Education in Bicol (DepEd-5) is in the final stages of preparing for the Palarong Bicol 2025, set to take place from March 22 to 29. During a press conference at Hotel Iñigo, regional sports officer Francisco Dexter Sison announced that Legazpi City has committed PHP17 million to host the event, which will showcase 24 different sports.
Sison highlighted the ongoing coordination with local government and other agencies to ensure the event’s success. A crucial meeting is scheduled for March 7 to finalize safety protocols and venue standards. He acknowledged the challenges, particularly with accommodations, noting that public schools will serve as billeting facilities, some of which lack air conditioning.
To enhance security, additional safety personnel and police will be deployed. Following Palarong Bicol, athletes will undergo training from April 2 to April 30 in preparation for the national Palarong Pambansa, scheduled from May 20 to June 2.
DepEd-5 Director Gilbert Sadsad stressed the importance of sportsmanship and the implementation of safety measures to protect the athletes. He called for collective effort to ensure the success of the regional games.
Simultaneously, the Palarong Panlalawigan in Albay, now in its second day, involves 25 school districts from 15 municipalities, divided into six clusters. Acting Albay Governor Glenda Ong-Bongao, during the opening ceremony, emphasized the event’s role in shaping athletes’ character and fostering discipline and dedication. She thanked all involved parties for their contributions and reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to supporting Albayano athletes.