The Province of Zambales is seeking to host the Palarong Pambansa 2027, as Governor Hermogenes E. Ebdane Jr. took part in the Presentation of Bids at the Department of Education (DepEd) Central Office in Pasig City on March 2, 2026.

DepEd Zambales OIC-SDS William Roderick R. Fallorin, CESO VI, together with officials from DepEd-Zambales, Provincial Sports Development Head Jade Ballesteros, Provincial Planning and Development Head Manny Adaoag, and Consultant on Infrastructure Development Engr. Domingo Mariano, accompanied the governor.

During the Palarong Pambansa Committee Special Board Meeting, the Zambales delegates provided insights on the province’s readiness to host the national sporting event next year. The DepEd and the Philippine Sports Commission led the bidding presentation.

Ebdane expressed confidence that Zambales will win the bid, citing the provincial government’s efforts in creating a world-class venue for the Palarong Pambansa 2027.

He added that, with the recent hosting of the 3rd Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Jamboree in Botolan, Zambales, the provincial government is well-prepared to manage accommodations, facilities, security, and other necessities for athletes and their school officials during their stay.

Aside from Zambales, Quezon City and the Province of Tarlac also aimed to host the Palarong Pambansa 2027, while Dasmariñas City and Ilagan City withdrew their bids.

The bidding presentation for hosting the Palarong Pambansa generally occurs the year before the event, often coinciding with the closing ceremonies of the current year’s Palaro. For example, bids for the 2024 Palaro were presented in July 2023, while bidding for the 2027 edition is set for September 15, 2025.

The Palarong Pambansa is the Philippines' premier national sporting event, managed by DepEd. Hosting and participating in the event requires strict adherence to technical, facility, and eligibility guidelines set by DepEd and RA 10588 (Palarong Pambansa Act of 2013).

The Palarong Pambansa serves as the country’s premier grassroots sports development program, identifying young talent from local, district, and regional meets. It acts as the final step in the competition ladder, with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) focusing on strengthening this pipeline, potentially unifying it with Batang Pinoy to better scout athletes.