Health checks, first aid, food safety, and potable water were among the Department of Education's priorities to ensure a successful Palarong Pambansa in Ilocos Norte.
As the 2025 Palarong Pambansa action continues, the Department of Education (DepEd) assured the public that safety and quality remain paramount in this year’s hosting of the country’s premier school-based sporting event, especially as it unfolds in the home province of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
“Prepared kami sa lahat. Siyempre iniisip namin ano ang pwede mangyari. Ako’y nagpapasalamat sa ating DepEd family at siyempre sa mga local governments dito sa Ilocos Norte. Very supportive sila,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said.
Angara, who also serves as the Palarong Pambansa Board Chairperson, has taken a hands-on role in planning and oversight. Weekly updates and direct coordination with committees ensure swift action on logistics and welfare issues.
DepEd Undersecretary for Operations and Palaro Secretary General Malcolm Garma echoed Sec. Angara, emphasizing the meticulous coordination with the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, local government units, and partner agencies to deliver a secure, inclusive, and high-caliber Palaro.
“More than infrastructure, it’s the community support and national pride that make this Palaro extraordinary,” Usec. Garma said.
A key highlight of this year’s Palaro is the robust health and safety framework established by DepEd and organizers.
All athletes and delegation members were required to secure medical certificates of fitness prior to the event.
Upon arrival, they undergo physical health checks, with strict “Fit to Play” enforcement by medical professionals.
First aid stations with hydration areas are in place at every venue, and ambulances have been deployed across billeting and competition sites. Medical teams are equipped not only for injury management but also to provide psychological first aid.
Close coordination between agencies is also established on disaster and environment-related concerns. In addition, Learner Rights and Protection Desks are also set up in all billeting quarters and playing venues to provide psychosocial support and interventions.
To address perennial issues like heat and water shortages, especially in billeting schools not originally designed for large populations, DepEd and the local government have upgraded electricity infrastructure and coordinated with the Bureau of Fire Protection to deliver potable water to affected areas.
Tournament schedules were also adjusted to avoid games between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, even for indoor sports with limited ventilation.
Food safety is also a priority, with athletes encouraged to eat only from certified vendors. Compliance with WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) standards and enforcement of anti-smoking, anti-vaping, and anti-alcohol policies are strictly being observed.
Private partners also provided donations and support to athletes and officials, including refreshments, medicines, merchandise, and other essentials.
As the games draw to close on May 31, DepEd hopes the passion of the athletes, the hospitality of the hosts, and the discipline of the organizers will set a new gold standard for future editions of the Palarong Pambansa.