LAOAG CITY — Laoag City retained its overall championship in the Region 1 Athletic Association (R1AA) after bagging an impressive 82 gold, 85 silver and 63 bronze medals in the multi-event competition that ended in Bacnotan, La Union, over the weekend.
The city’s 507 athletes dominated anew with the most medal haul in gymnastics, athletics, arnis and swimming, topping the competition participated in by some 10,000 delegates from the Ilocos Region (Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union and Pangasinan).
The Laoag City athletes, likewise, shone in taekwondo, wrestling and tennis, earning them spots for Region 1 in the 2025 Palarong Pambansa, which Ilocos Norte will host from May 24 to June 2.
AMAZING FEAT. Team Laoag came prepared by capturing the R1AA title. “I’m quite surprised with what Team Laoag has done. It’s really amazing,” Laoag City Mayor Michael Keon said.
Last year, Laoag City captured its first-ever overall championship in the R1AA after collecting 79 golds, 53 silvers and 68 bronzes. Keon led the city delegation in receiving the championship trophy during the awarding ceremony at Bacnotan Farmers Park and Civic Center.
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED. Team Laoag ruled this years R1AA title by the overall championship. The city’s 507 athletes gave out their all making them back-to-back champions.
The final standing was determined as of noontime with the unofficial medal tally showing Pangasinan 1 finishing second (59-59-58), Pangasinan 2 third (50-47-57), Ilocos Norte fourth (42-50-54) and Ilocos Sur fifth (39-22-41).
Finishing 6th to 14th were Urdaneta City, Dagupan City, La Union, San Carlos City, Vigan City, Alaminos City, San Fernando City, Candon City and Batac City.
Laoag City Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Joanne Corpuz congratulated the athletes for their “dedication and perseverance” to defend their title. She added that the landslide victory reflected the city’s comprehensive sports development programs and dedication of the athletes.
