SDOIN Chronicles, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, Laoag City (2025)

31/05/2025

FEATURE | 𝙄𝙉𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙎𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮 | 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐁𝐞𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭

The sunlight had just barely touched the horizon as Jelyn Marie laced up her shoes and began her relentless drills – with feet pounding the tracks, her muscles straining at the sandpit, and her arms launching heavy iron balls into the air. For most athletes, mastering a single sport is already a feat, but for the 17-year-old visually impaired student-athlete Jelyn Marie, excelling in just one discipline is simply not enough.

Jelyn Marie Villar, a student-athlete in the Special Program Education under the Transition Program of Zambales National High School, is competing in three track and field events: running, long jump, and shot put, representing the Central Luzon Region. She acknowledges that each sport discipline requires a varied blend of speed, strength, coordination and mental focus; but for her, they all require something deeper, which is discipline, perseverance, and unwavering belief in herself.

At 17 years old, Jelyn Marie has earned her reputation as one of the most anticipated para- athletes at this year’s Palarong Pambansa 2025. She garnered a bronze medal in the shot put event at the 2024 Palarong Pambansa held in Cebu City and earned a gold medal in the long jump event and a silver medal in the shot put event at the 2023 Palarong Pambansa held in Marikina City. And this year, she is determined to strive for a gold medal in all of her events at the Palarong Pambansa 2025 held at Ilocos Norte.

“Galingan mo palagi” she fondly shared her parents’ words that she wholeheartedly lives by. She then recognizes that her fascination and love for sports were fueled by her parents' support, which drove her determination towards athletic excellence. Through her humble upbringing, she shares that her parents and her desire to give them a better life are her inspiration in her athletic journey.

Coach Genifer Alcantara, Head Teacher III of Zambales National High School, who has been working with Jelyn Marie for more than 2 years, calls her “a kind and a disciplined learner”. She adds, “She listens well and does not back out from anything.” Her coach then emphasized that even though Jelyn faced some hurdles and even woke up at the crack of dawn, she practices diligently.

Jelyn Marie’s ultimate dream is to join the Philippine national para-athletic team and compete on the international stage. For now, she is putting her utmost focus and strength on the Palarong Pambasa – her proving ground and her chance for her name to be fully seen and recognized nationally.

Yet, Jelyn's talents do not end at the stadium, having won First Place in her hometown’s singing contest at the tender age of 8 and her passion for singing while excellently performing during school events earns her resounding applause. “Pangarap ko rin ang sumikat sa pagkanta” she excitedly shares her one-of-a-kind dream.

Her strength and talent are not just a personal milestone but a testament that she, together with her fellow blessed and able learners, can do what a normal person can do - and even go beyond. Jelyn Marie may not perfectly see the field and track ahead, but she moves with the clarity that few athletes possess: a vision of becoming a Paralympian and a source of pride for her parents and every Filipino.

Whether she is sprinting towards the podium of first place, landing a perfect long jump, hitting her mark in the shot put or serenading her community with a guitar, Jelyn Marie Villar is more than just a multi-sport athlete. She is the epitome of Filipino resilience, talent and unwavering determination. Jelyn Marie has a clear and perfect vision – giving back to her family while representing the Philippines on the international stage and inspiring every Filipino one stride, one jump, one throw, one note, and one dream at a time.

✍️𝙅𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙖𝙣𝙚 𝙈𝙖𝙞𝙧𝙞 𝘿. 𝘼𝙜𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣
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𝘿𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩! 𝙁𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 SDOIN CHRONICLES 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚

31/05/2025

NEWS | 𝑹𝑬𝑫𝑬𝑴𝑷𝑻𝑰𝑶𝑵 𝑪𝑶𝑴𝑷𝑳𝑬𝑻𝑬
𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐠𝐮𝐧𝐬 𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐆𝐀 𝐢𝐧 𝐠𝐫𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝟐-𝟏 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧

After falling just short as first runner-up in last year’s Palarong Pambansa, Western Visayas roared back with vengeance and unshakable resolve to finally seize the Secondary Boys Sepak Takraw championship, outlasting a tenacious CARAGA squad in a thrilling 2-1 three-regu finale marked by dramatic momentum shifts, individual brilliance, and a display of grit that electrified the MMSU Covered Court, May 30.

Western Visayas returned to the national stage with renewed determination and a championship-or-bust mentality that set the tone for their gritty performance against a formidable CARAGA side.

“Our boys showed heart and hunger from start to finish, we knew if our striker found his rhythm, we had a real shot at the title,” said Western Visayas head coach Rey Jagunap, his voice cracking with emotion after the hard-fought match.

In a pulsating showdown that lived up to the high-stakes atmosphere, CARAGA surged to an early 6-0 lead in the first regu unleashed flurry of service aces from tekong Gio Marini Garlitos, sharp feeds from Obrecht Fernandez, and emphatic spikes by Shanley Clark Kenn Ariate before Western Visayas, anchored by tekong Rainer Penuela and feeder Harjay Suelo, responded with quick adjustments to trim the deficit to 4-6, forcing a strategic timeout.

CARAGA reasserted dominance after the break as striker Shanley Clark Kenn Ariate delivered a string of piercing spikes to close the first set, 15-7, despite the agile floor coverage of Jhero Suelo for Western Visayas.

Western Visayas roared back in the second set with a stunning 7-0 start, capped by a spectacular cross-court finish from Jhero Suelo, and although CARAGA’s Obrecht Fernandez helped his team draw level at 12-all with quick sets and tight defense, the Region VI squad held firm to sn**ch the frame, 15-12.

CARAGA once again surged ahead in the deciding set, building a 5-1 lead with timely serves from Ivan Fernandez, but Western Visayas responded with defensive grit and a couple of momentum-swinging blocks from Harjay Suelo to tie the score at 8-all before CARAGA edged ahead, 15-12, through clutch points from Ariate.

Western Visayas leaned heavily on striker Gian Frederick Arellano in the second regu, who rattled off a series of explosive sunback spikes that pierced through the resistance of CARAGA’s second regu led by Fritch Jhon De Castro, claiming the first set 15-13.

While Clark Jerson Rabino kept the pressure on from the service line, it was Redmark Alido’s soft touches at the net that consistently disrupted CARAGA’s rhythm.

The deciding set of the second regu saw both teams trading early blows that led to intense deadlocks at 3-all and 9-all, yet a decisive scoring run fueled by Redmark Alido’s well-placed feeds and Arellano’s late-set flurry allowed Western Visayas to pull away for a 15-11 win and even the championship at one regu apiece.

Western Visayas came out firing in the third regu, with high-flying Razil John Magno torching CARAGA’s backline with a clinic of sunback spikes that gave his squad a 15-9 opening set win with Reio Jey Magno adding spark to maintain the momentum with consistent service pressure.

Although Aianbert Tumanda hustled on defense for CARAGA, their unit struggled to contain the offensive pace.

Unwilling to fold, CARAGA mounted a fierce response in the second set behind James Adrian Mapute’s leaping spikes and better serve reception orchestrated by Tumanda, allowing them to wrest control for a 15-8 set win that set the stage for a gripping decider.

Even as Ryan Panilagao held the defensive line for Western Visayas, the CARAGA trio forced multiple errors with their aggressive approach.

With tension peaking in the final set, both squads traded highlight-reel plays, but it was Razil John Magno’s relentless aerial assault, combined with sharp communication from Panilagao, that ultimately propelled Western Visayas to a 15-12 win sealing the regu and the championship before a roaring crowd.

“We gave everything we had, but Western Visayas just executed better in the crucial moments,” admitted CARAGA coach Nestor Dimacuha, who still praised his for pushing the finals to the limit with poise and resilience.

To cap off their hard-fought championship run, each Western Visayas player proudly brought home an individual trophy along with a cash incentive of PhP 2,000.00, a fitting reward for teamwork and long-awaited triumph on the national stage.

✍️𝗔𝗿𝗹𝗮𝗻 𝗙. 𝗟𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗲 𝗦. 𝗟𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗲𝘀
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𝘿𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩! 𝙁𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 SDOIN CHRONICLES 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚

31/05/2025

𝐀 𝐒𝐀𝐋𝐔𝐓𝐄 𝐓𝐎 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐘𝐓𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐑𝐒
by: Chloe Angelica C. Aglipay

As a student who had the chance to witness the Palarong Pambansa 2025 here in Ilocos Norte, I expected to be inspired by the athletes, and I was. But what moved me just as deeply was watching another team who had worked tirelessly behind the scenes: the SDOIN Chronicles, the official publication of the Schools Division of Ilocos Norte. While most eyes were on the games, I saw the people who never stopped moving, writing, clicking, asking, and editing, committed to capture the heart of every moment.
The SDOIN Chronicles, headed by the Editor-in-Chief and Education Program Supervisor in English Mrs. Ritchelle Blanco Dejolde, is made up of school paper advisers and volunteer campus journalists from the different schools of Ilocos Norte. I saw them at the break of day, already carrying their cameras and notebooks. I passed by them during the events, focused and determined even under the sun. And when most of us had gone home, they were still working, choosing the right
words, reviewing photos, and preparing the next updates and issues for the day.
It was clear that they weren’t here to just do a task – they were here to care, to tell a story, and to shed light. They cared about the athletes, the stories, and the unified nation. They showed respect in every interview and precision in every post. What they produced didn’t only inform us but also gave life to the event. Through their words and images, they allowed everyone, even those far away, to feel part of something meaningful.
As a student, I feel proud knowing that some of my teachers and fellow students were part of that team. I saw professionalism, creativity, and dedication in action. They didn’t ask for praise, but they earned it with every effort they poured into their work.
To the SDOIN Chronicles team, thank you. You reminded us that storytelling is a form of service. You gave voice to the games, to the people, and to Ilocos Norte itself. Your work mattered, and we saw it. We are inspired.

𝙁𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 SDOIN CHRONICLES FB PAGE and our official website, https://sdoinchronicles.blog/ , 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 stories during the Palarong Pambansa 2025.

31/05/2025

𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐰!

𝐒𝐃𝐎𝐈𝐍 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐥𝐞𝐬 proudly launches its 𝟑𝐫𝐝 𝐈𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐚 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞. 𝘿𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩! 𝙁𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 SDOIN CHRONICLES FB PAGE and our official website, https://sdoinchronicles.blog/ , 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 stories during the Palarong Pambansa 2025.

https://tinyurl.com/SDOINchronicle3
https://tinyurl.com/SDOINchronicle3
https://tinyurl.com/SDOINchronicle3

31/05/2025

SIR GENE: A LEGACY OF AN INDOMITABLE SPIRIT
by: Eliza Milagros Rivera, Arlinda Ucol, and Kathleen Fandag

Long before he officially reached retirement age, Mr. Gene A. Reginaldo had already etched his name into the heart of Ilocos Norte’s sports community. But when he learned that the province would host the 2025 Palarong Pambansa, he knew his journey was not quite over. Fueled by an indomitable spirit that had defined his 43 years in public service, he asked for an extension. Not for recognition, but for responsibility. He couldn’t walk away when the stakes were this high. He returned not out of obligation, but out of sheer love for the craft, the athletes, and the province he served with unwavering passion.
A pillar of the Schools Division of Ilocos Norte and fondly known as the Sports Guru, Mr. Reginaldo officially marked his retirement on May 10, 2025. His legacy as Education Program Supervisor in MAPEH, a position he held since 2016, is built not only on programs and policies but also on people. These include coaches, teachers, and students who found their stride because of his tireless mentorship and his belief in the transformative power of sports.
Hosting the Palarong Pambansa is no small feat, but under his watchful guidance, Ilocos Norte rose to the occasion. “It’s a feeling of fulfillment, pride, and joy,” he said. “We worked hard for this moment. And even with a few lapses along the way, we made sure to address them. The positive feedback shows our readiness.”
Before becoming a supervisor, he was a classroom teacher and an athletics and football coach. From those humble beginnings, he steadily rose, earning roles as sports coordinator, consultant, and eventually a supervisor whose influence reshaped the division’s approach to sports and cultural programs. He revived the division’s cultural troupe and professionalized athlete selection and training through the establishment of school sports clubs grounded in discipline and standards.
“The secret is simple,” he shared with a warm smile. “Stay positive. Just smile.” But behind that simplicity lies a lifetime of dedication, sacrifices, and silent victories, the kind that don’t always get written about but are felt deeply in the hearts of those whose lives he touched.
To young and aspiring teachers involved in sports, his message remains clear: “Love what you do. Let your passion guide you. Learn by doing and never lose patience. This work is not easy, but it is always worth it.”
Now in retirement, Mr. Reginaldo plans to focus on his health and visit his two children abroad. But in truth, his story doesn’t end with his departure. It lives on in every tournament organized, every athlete trained with heart, and every teacher inspired to go the extra mile.
He may have left his office, but his influence walks the school grounds, runs the tracks, and echoes in the cheers of every game. Because a man like Gene Reginaldo does not simply retire. He leaves behind a legacy built by an indomitable spirit that continues to move, to lead, and to inspire.

𝘿𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩! 𝙁𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 SDOIN CHRONICLES FB PAGE and our official website, sdoinchronicles.blog , 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚!

31/05/2025

DepEd charts plans ahead of school opening

Batac City, Ilocos Norte-Top officials from the Department of Education (DepEd), including regional directors, assistant secretaries, and undersecretaries, gathered at Treasure Trove Resort in Barangay Magnuang, Batac City for the National Pre-Management Committee (Pre-MANCOM) Meeting, May 30.

The session, presided over by Usec. Fatima Lipp D. Panontongan, was held to tackle important updates and issues in preparation for the upcoming school year, which opens on June 16, 2025. Among the agenda items discussed were Oplan Balik Eskwela, Brigada Eskwela, Learner Health Assessment, SBFP payments and procurement, budget compliance, and the submission of regional flags for the DepEd Central Office.

In an interview, Director Jake Rivera of the Public Affairs Service stressed that the goal of the Pre-MANCOM is to ensure that the opening of classes goes as smoothly as possible. He also shared that a more flexible age cut-off for kindergarten will be implemented this year to welcome more young learners into the system.

Director Rivera also introduced new learning programs set to roll out this school year, particularly the ARAL Program, signed into law in October 2024, which will be implemented this School Year 2025–2026. It offers free tutorials in reading, math, and science for Grades 1–10 and foundational skills for kindergarten learners. The program will involve teachers, para-teachers, and education students.

When asked about the recent developments in DepEd leadership, Director Rivera addressed the courtesy resignation submitted by Senator Edgardo Angara, noting that all functions of the Department continue as usual. “Hangga’t hindi pormal na tinatanggap ng ating Pangulo ang pagbibitiw, mananatiling nasa posisyon ang ating mahal na Sec. Angara at magpapatuloy sa kanyang tungkulin, ” he said.

Coinciding with Palarong Pambansa 2025, the event served as both a planning session and a celebration of youth and education. Director Rivera also expressed his appreciation for the warm reception given by the host province. “The hospitality of the Ilocanos is truly heartwarming,” he shared. “It makes this gathering even more meaningful.”

The meeting highlighted the Department’s readiness, responsiveness, and renewed focus on learner-centered programs ahead of another school year.
News Writers: Heidy M. Agudong and Lorelyn Ramos
News Reporter: Chloie Aglipay
News Report Scriptwriter: John Jufel Simpliciano
Videojournalists and Video Editors: Athan James Tuzon and Leober Aaron Miranda

𝘿𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩! 𝙁𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 SDOIN CHRONICLES FB PAGE and our official website, sdoinchronicles.blog , 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚!

31/05/2025

SDS Balderas reflects on the success of 2025 Palarong Pambansa:
“My best experience in DepEd so far”
By Jigino Pagal and Juliana Balantac

As the final whistle blew and the cheers of young athletes echoed through the province, the 2025 Palarong Pambansa came to a close, not just with medals and memories, but with a resounding sense of accomplishment for the Schools Division of Ilocos Norte (SDOIN) and the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN).
Described as the "best so far" by Atty. Donato Balderas, Jr., schools division superintendent of SDOIN, the national sporting event marked a milestone for the Department of Education and the host province.

In an exclusive interview, Atty. Balderas shared his heartfelt assessment of Ilocos Norte’s hosting, placing emphasis on unity, hard work, and the unseen yet vital contributions of those behind the scenes.

“The 2025 Palarong Pambansa is the best so far that I have seen and experienced in the Department of Education. It was very successful,” he remarked with quiet pride. “Everybody has contributed, and I thank everyone in the Schools Division of Ilocos Norte from us officials to the teachers, parents, and everyone else who worked tirelessly.”

The superintendent likened the division’s role to an unseen but essential force, drawing inspiration from the timeless wisdom of The Little Prince, “What is essential is not seen by the naked eye. What is essential is seen by the heart.”

“We at SDOIN are the people behind the scene. We are in the background,” he explained. “I would have to believe SDOIN is the heart behind what is seen,” he remarked.

This poetic reflection captures the deep humility and dedication of the educators and support staff who labored beyond the limelight. Their contributions, while not always visible, were foundational to the seamless ex*****on of the games from logistical coordination to emotional support for the athletes.

Atty. Balderas also extended his gratitude to the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, particularly Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc, for their unwavering commitment and collaboration. “They have also worked very hard with us. They were committed to delivering a memorable and sustainable event,” he said.

The harmony between SDOIN and PGIN exemplified the spirit of bayanihan, a uniquely Filipino tradition of communal unity and cooperation. It is this synergy, coupled with meticulous planning and grassroots support, that turned Ilocos Norte into a beacon of excellence in hosting national events.

“Know in your heart that we are really the scenes behind scenes,” Atty. Balderas said in closing. “That is something that the heart can see, not only the naked eye can see but the heart of those who experienced the very successful 2025 Palarong Pambansa.”

As the province now returns to its regular rhythm, the legacy of this year’s Palaro remains not just in records broken or victories won, but in the quiet, steady heartbeat of the people who made it all possible.

𝘿𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩! 𝙁𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 SDOIN CHRONICLES FB PAGE and our official website, sdoinchronicles.blog , 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚!

29/05/2025

𝐒𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐒: 𝐂𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐀𝐑𝐙𝐎𝐍 𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐝𝐮𝐞𝐥𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐈, 𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐭
by Arlan F. Llanes and Maylanie S. Llanes

In a match filled with gravity-defying kicks, nail-biting rallies, and heart-stopping momentum shifts, Region IV-A CALABARZON edged past a resilient Region I squad in straight sets, 17-15, 15-6, to punch their ticket to the Sepak Takraw Boys Elementary Division finals at the MMSU Covered Court, May 29.

Both teams came into the semifinal clash carrying unbeaten records and a reputation for high-octane play, and they did not disappoint. With a finals berth on the line, every point was fiercely contested, every serve calculated, and every spike roared by a gym full of cheering supporters.

The first set was a showcase of raw talent and nerves of steel from both squads. Region I came out aggressive, with striker Lance Aehron Ridulme firing off multiple acrobatic spikes that kept CALABARZON scrambling on defense.

Feeder Rhed Gumpad set the tone with accurate tosses, while tekong Zhian Chris Calastravo delivered crisp serves that pressured the CALABARZON backline.

CALABARZON, however, responded in kind. Jiromon Pascual, their high-flying striker, answered with his own aerial attacks, often timing his jumps perfectly to pierce through Region I's block attempts.

Jimmuel Leona kept the rhythm steady as feeder, while tekong Paul Kim Machon delivered with composed and calculated serves.

Despite CALABARZON’s efforts, it was Region I who first reached set point, surging ahead to 14-12. A booming service ace from Calastravo and a drop shot from Ridulme pushed Region I to the brink of taking the opener.

But CALABARZON refused to fold. Pascual drilled a clean spike off a misdirection from Leona to make it 13-14, and Machon followed up with a service that forced an error, tying it at 14-all.

What followed were three furious rallies. Region I’s attack faltered under the pressure, committing a service error to give CALABARZON a 15-14 edge.

After a brief exchange of points, Pascual closed the set with a thunderous kill, capping a stunning 17-15 comeback.

“This team has been working hard on staying calm in crucial moments,” said CALABARZON head coach Romark Piano. “Even when we were down, they didn’t panic instead, they played for each other.”

The second set began with both teams still brimming with intensity, but the momentum clearly favored CALABARZON.

Midway through the set, Region I suffered a major blow when tekong Calastravo went down with an apparent ankle injury while attempting a block. He was replaced by reserve player Aian Christian Unciano, but the adjustment disrupted their flow.

CALABARZON capitalized quickly as Leona and Pascual executed a series of combination plays, with Machon continuing to pressure Region I’s weakened reception line.

The Rizal-based Region 4A squad surged to a 10-3 lead and never looked back, sealing the second set 15-6 in dominant fashion.

Despite the loss, Region I coach Magellan Sarandi remained optimistic. “We fought hard. The boys showed heart. Losing our tekong was tough, but we’ll regroup and give it our best in the bronze match.”

CALABARZON now advances to the finals against the National Capital Region (NCR), while Region I will battle Region XII SOCCSKSARGEN for third place.

29/05/2025

SPORTS NEWS-FEATURE | 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭: 𝐂𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐀𝐑𝐙𝐎𝐍’𝐬 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐤 𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐫𝐚𝐰 𝐁𝐨𝐲𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐚

Batac City- With bare concrete as their court and a borrowed barangay road as their training ground, the elementary boys’ sepak takraw team from CALABARZON defied the odds by sweeping the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) in straight sets, 2-0, during the Palarong Pambansa 2025 held at Mariano Marcos Covered Court in Batac City, Ilocos Norte, May 27.

The match opened with intensity. Tekong Paul Kim Machon set the tone with instep serve that CAR failed to return, drawing an early point.

Team captain Jiromon Pascual, a not-so-shy spiker, followed up with back-to-back roll spikes, set perfectly by setter Jimmuel Leona. CAR tried making quick rallies with drop shots and tightly placed serves, but the youngest player, Grade 4’s Joshua Redera, responded with hustling plays that kept the momentum on the side of CALABARZON.

Following an apt time-out, Coach Romark L. Piano refocused the team, and it paid off. Two service aces from Machon and a thunderous cross-court spike by Pascual placed them at set point. With razor-sharp defense and aggressive net play, CALABARZON slammed the door shut at 15-10, to claim Set 1 in dominating fashion.

When set two opened with both squads' toe-to-toe, CAR launched more aggressively. Their tekong found rhythm and delivered clever served. CALABARZON fell behind early, 3-5, then but Pascual fired back with a booming overhead spike. Redera added a stunning save, sprawling on the court to prevent the ball from touching the ground. The rally ended with Machon, who delivered a cut serve that CAR unable to return, 6-6.

At mid-set, both sides rallied and blocked. Pascual’s overhead continued to dazzle as he set two consecutive spikes. Still, CAR’s spiker found holes in the defense, and they led 11-10.

Tension rose as both teams traded errors and brilliance- net touches and impressive footwork. It was a seesaw battle, and the crowd roared and felt the intensity.

At 12-12, the game entered into a deuce. Leona remained calm, serving up perfect sets. Pascual slammed a killer spike, but CAR hit back with a strong spike of its own, 13-13.

Machon’s follow-up sidekick serve landed just within the baseline, 14-13 for CALABARZON . CAR dug deep and leveled again, 14-14. Now each touch counted.

With grit in his veins, Leona set Pascual, who hammered a crosscourt spike to a spot between CAR’s defenders, 15-14. Each point was a battle.

A tense rally followed. Redera dove for a save, Leona launched it high, and Pascual delivered the final blow- a powerful crosscourt spike that sealed the match, 17-15.
But behind the numbers was a story that started away from the polished floors of Palarong Pambansa.

“We used to be isantabi lang,” said Coach Romark Piano, suppressing a tear. “No one looked at sepak takraw. It was always volleyball and basketball.”

Their school, Ampid 1 Elementary—is the smallest in San Mateo, Rizal, with only eight classrooms with approximately 1,500 students. Their kindergarten classes were accommodated in a barangay hall. Without a school court, they practiced on public roads.

“The barangay would close the street for our practice. The lines of our court were drawn on the pavement. Whenever a car came by, we’d have to raise the net. We moved from one barangay to another just to have a place to practice. But we were always asked to leave by basketball players. They’d say, ‘Ano ba yang ginagawa niyo? Ano yang pinaglalaban niyo?’’ Nevertheless, they persisted. Their team slogan,” If there is even a 1% chance, fight,” became their battle cry.

And for Coach Piano, the sacrifice extended far beyond coaching time.

“Nauubos din sweldo naming mag-asawa sa training,” he disclosed in a low tone. “Lalo na noong panahon ng eleksyon, hinihintay na lang namin ang sahod para may maipakain sa mga bata. Bale 10 po pala ang alaga namin kasama na yong mga batang babae.” (“Our salaries would run out to support the team. During the election period, we went literally waiting for the payday so we could feed the kids.”)

Their perseverance paid dividends—winning the provincial meet, the regional meet, and now competing in the national stage.

Coach Piano said that he is grateful of the unwavering support of their principal, Dr. Alma R. Aranded, and finally, the recognition from their local government, which helped them propel to the PALARO competition.

They carried the dreams of a small school, the sacrifice of an altruistic coach, and the heart of every underdog who refused to back down.

From Rizal’s concrete streets to the national arena, these young warriors have proven that champions are not made by facilities but by fire, grit, determination, and the will to fight for that 1% chance.

✍️𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗮 𝗠. 𝗜𝗰𝘂𝘀𝗽𝗶𝘁
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𝘿𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩! 𝙁𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 SDOIN CHRONICLES 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚

29/05/2025

COLUMN | 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐨 𝐀𝐭𝐡𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐬

“Let the games begin,” is a famous line that signals the commence of every sports competition. The most prestigious athletic meet of the country, the Palarong Pambansa 2025 is held with grandeur and festivity in Ilocos Norte, beaming with the Ilocanos’ pride in presenting not only their world- class Ferdinand Edralin Marcos Sr (FEM) sports arena but also their rich culture and picturesque province.

Welcoming more than 15,000 delegations coming from the 18 regions of the country, as well as numerous sports enthusiasts and government leaders, undeniably, this event is an assembly point of top caliber players of the land, an avenue to showcase their athletic skills and prowess in where every athlete is pursuing a lifelong aspiration, to claim the pinnacle of every sports contest, the renowned gold medal award.

Every Pinoy athlete strives not only to claim the elusive gold medal in the Palarong Pambansa but also to represent the country in the world stage, aiming for glory and earning a spot in the world’ biggest sporting events, from the SEA Games to the Olympic Tournament. However, the world of sports keeps on evolving into greater heights, seeking to achieve not of mediocrity but of excellence.

Sadly, this is where the Filipino athletes seems to be behind compared to our neighboring Asian countries such as Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand. In many instances, the Philippines finds itself at the tail end when it comes to medal standing in international competitions, raising a pressing concern; what’s hindering the nation’s sports progress and development.

There is no denying that Pinoy players possess skills and abilities comparable if not better than to their foreign counterparts. Hidilyn Diaz the country’s first Olympic gold medalist who won the 55 kilograms category at the 2020 Summer Olympics and is a two-time Olympian. Carlos Yulo, a Filipino gymnast who made history by becoming the Philippines’ first double Olympic gold medalist. This overwhelming triumph was achieved at the 2024 Paris Olympics, winning gold medals in the men’s floor exercise and vault events. Foremost is the legendary Teofilo Yldefonso, famously adage as the “Ilocano Shark” who made an outstanding historical record and the first ever Filipino to win an Olympic medal, claiming bronze in the 200-meter breaststroke events at the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics and the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics. The impressive track records of our athletes have proven their exceptional skill and outstanding abilities in the world of sports.

With thousands of young athletes aspiring to move forward to the Olympics like Diaz, Yulo and Yldefonso, it is imperative for the country to prioritize its sports program, focusing on the improvement of training activities and spotlighting the athletes’ welfare. Tailored training programs definitely enhance athlete’s skills and performance, better training and support can prepare them for international competitions, holistic development can lead to their physical, mental and emotional well-being. The real athletic challenge extends beyond physical strength, demanding intellectual toughness, emotional resilience, and social adaptability. Sports programs must also be long term because it leads to sustained success and sports culture in the Philippines. Without overwhelming resource allocation which ensures effective use of facilities and financial allocation, the training for world class athletes may be placed in vain. Therefore, our elected government officials and leaders as well as other stakeholders must champion this initiative.

Our Olympic aspirants, our young, strong and vibrant Filipino athletes are thirsty for recalibrating their athletic capabilities and are ready to elevate and unlock their full potentials. They are indeed eager to take their performances to the next level and are awaiting opportunities to refine their skills. Let their voices and plea be heard and give them a chance to realize their dreams of becoming world class athletes. As the Palarong Pambansa 2025 nearly come to its end, may it be not the end for our sports players goals. May the Filipino athletes reach new heights and bring pride to the nation. It is time to invest in their development and provide necessary support for them to succeed in the world stage. These will help the nation to produce more Yulos in the future!

✍️𝗞𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗹𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗘. 𝗙𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗴
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𝘿𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩! 𝙁𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 SDOIN CHRONICLES 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚

SDOIN Chronicles

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