The Department of Education in Bicol (DepEd-5) is finalizing the general calendar of activities, playing venues, and safety measures to ensure a smooth regional sports competition for the Palarong Bicol 2025, scheduled from March 22 to 29.

In a press conference on Wednesday, DepEd regional sports officer Francisco Dexter Sison said Legazpi City has allocated PHP17 million to host the week-long event that will feature 24 sports.

“DepEd has conducted coordination meetings and planning sessions with other agencies and the local government of Legazpi City regarding the preparations for Palarong Bicol 2025. On March 7, we will hold another meeting to further discuss the safety of players and the standards required for the playing venues,” he said.

Sison said just like organizing any other major event, preparing for Palarong Bicol is not without challenges.

“So we will be utilizing public schools as billeting facilities. Not all rooms have air conditioning, so there may be some discomfort. However, we assure you that we are doing our best to meet the requirements,” he said.

He added that additional safety personnel and police officers will be assigned to ensure the safety of all athletes and participants.

“After Palarong Bicol, athletes competing in the Palarong Pambansa from May 20 to June 2 will have training sessions in their respective school divisions from April 2 to April 30,” he said.

For his part, DepEd-5 Director Gilbert Sadsad emphasized how the regional games enhance sportsmanship even as he assured the safety of Bicolano athletes by implementing preemptive safety measures to minimize unexpected incidents.

“Let’s all work together to have a successful Palarong Bicol 2025,” Sadsad said.

Meanwhile, the province-wide Palarong Panlalawigan in Albay entered its second day.

At least 25 school districts from the 15 municipalities, grouped into six clusters, are participating in this year’s provincial sporting event.

During the opening ceremony on Tuesday, acting Albay Governor Glenda Ong-Bongao said the event marked the beginning of a bright future for Albayano athletes.

“In every game, you will be shaped not only as athletes but also as individuals. With every win, you will learn the importance of discipline and dedication. With every loss, you will learn how to pick yourself up and continue the fight,” Bongao said in Filipino.

She emphasized that this event is not merely a training to hone athletic skills but also an opportunity to develop awareness as an Albayano athlete.

Bongao extended her gratitude to all local government units, school heads, stakeholders, athletes, and coaches for making the sports events possible.

“The Provincial Government of Albay is committed to empowering our Albayano athletes. To all, let’s make this 2025 Palarong Panlalawigan memorable,” she added. (PNA)