By Leilanie Adriano

YOUTH SPORTS. Young athletes compete in beach volleyball at Asaricha Tropical Beach Resort in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte Friday (Feb. 20, 2026). The annual tournament, organized by the Office of Rep. Angelo Marcos Barba, aims to discover young talents for higher-level competitions. (PNA photo by Leilanie Adriano)

PASUQUIN, Ilocos Norte – The shoreline of Barangay Estancia hosted young athletes Friday for the 7th edition of the AMB beach volleyball tournament, providing a platform to hone their skills in the sport.

The Office of Ilocos Norte 2nd District Rep. Angelo Marcos Barba organized the annual event to discover new talents and promote life balance through youth sports and tourism. This year’s competition features men’s and women’s divisions for high school students.

Barba said they lowered the age limit to 17 years and below from the previous 21 years and below to train players early for higher-level competitions such as Batang Pinoy and national team tryouts.

“More than just a game, we hope that this will instill discipline among our youth which they carry on for life,” he said.

Volleyball teaches young players essential skills, from building relationships to developing leadership qualities.

Over the years, the tournament has nurtured talents like Czarina Ramos, who was discovered in the province and now shines in the National Collegiate Athletic Association. (PNA)