Not even a scary tremor could dampen the spirits of over 15,675 delegates gathered to participate and compete in the 65th Palarong Pambansa unfurling today at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium in Laoag City in Ilocos Norte.

A 5.4 magnitude earthquake struck the Ilocos Region around 10:36 a.m., prompting the evacuation of student-athletes and officials in their respective billeting quarters for safety.

The Department of Education (DepEd) assured that there were no injuries or structural damage on game venues reported after thorough inspection and assessment.

“The Incident Command Post (ICP) has mobilized the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and Regional Safety Officers to immediately inspect all billeting and playing venues, including the Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium (FEMMS), to ensure the continued safety of all delegates,” DepEd said in a statement.

“As of this report, no injuries or major structural damages have been recorded. All delegates are safe. There is no cause for alarm or panic.”

However, DepEd reminded delegates to stay vigilant as action in the country’s biggest grassroots competitions fires off in different fronts.

“The Regional Incident Management Team (RIMT) has reiterated the earthquake response protocols in place for all participating schools and continues to advise everyone to remain vigilant,” DepEd said.

“Safety remains our top priority. We will provide updates as necessary.”

With worries brought by the earthquake allayed, the colorful traditional Parada ng mga Atleta proceeded, as delegates from different regions marched from the Ilocos Norte Provincial Capitol, passing by the Sirib Mile before making their way to the main hub where the opening ceremony was held.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, a proud son of Ilocos Norte, graced the event as the guest of honor.

In his speech, Marcos emphasized the role of the youth in nation-building before declaring the games open.

Meanwhile, Olympic champion Hidilyn Diaz led the Oath of Coaches and Technical Officials, marking her debut as technical director of the weightlifting event in the Palaro.

Also in attendance were Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Manotoc, Vice Governor Cecilia Marcos, and Laoag City Mayor Michael Keon.

As the sun rises over the main hub today, all 17 regions, the National Academy of Sports, and the Philippine Schools Overseas will duke it out to be named overall champion.

The first gold medal is expected to be won in the secondary girls’ 3000-meter event that starts as early as 6 a.m. along with elementary boys’ long jump and elementary girls’ discus throw.

Also kicking off are medal-rich swimming, gymnastics, tennis, volleyball and basketball.

The National Capital Region is gunning for its 18th straight Palaro overall title while regions like CALABARZON, Western Visayas and Davao Region are expected to give the Big City bets strong opposition.