The Stadium of the North is a renovation project that will rebuild the Mariano Marcos Stadium, locate beside the Mariano Marcos State University. The current stadium has a total area of 43,820 sqm and a capacity of 2,000 people. It is open to the public at set hours and is the go-to place for running and exercise of the Laoageños.
The complex houses the Ilocos Norte Development Office (INYDO) and Sports Development Office (INSDO) and was once the venue for the first Ilocos Norte Youth Games and Ilocos Norte Children’s Games. The site is situated between residential and institutional developments. The redevelopment of the stadium will not only boost the development of the talents and skills of student-athletes in the area but will serve as a venue for large events in the region.
The main consideration in designing this stadium is to link to its surrounding development and open spaces. A proposed sloping landscape that connects the Rizal Park to the stadium creates a sense of openness welcoming everyone to watch or use the venue. By opening the stadium to the park, it creates an amphitheater with an unobstructed view. It links the two spaces connecting the green areas, fostering walkability and accessiblity.
The stadium will serve as a primary function hall for the Ilocanos for various events. Athletic sports events like the Palaraong Pambansa, Milo Marathon, R1AA Meet (Region One Athletic Association), and Youth Day will be held here. It will also be a training ground for athletes and student athletes in the region. On a daily basis, it will be a hangout place for the public. The stadium will play a big role in the lifestyle of the Ilocanos.
