For the win: Agusan Sur athletes boost training ahead of regional games in Surigao City
By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo
PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur (PIA) — Agsurnon athletes continue to undergo intensive training at the Datu Lipus Makapandong Sports Complex (DLMSC) in the Government Center, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, with the support of the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur (PGAS). The training, which began on February 9, is part of their preparation for the Caraga Regional Athletic Games (CRAG) set to take place in Surigao City from March 15-20, 2026.
The athletes are using the DLMSC as their main training facility as they prepare for various events such as para games, athletics, track and field, football, futsal, volleyball, gymnastics, aerobics, dancesport, swimming, and other sports. They also continue training for indoor sports and other events practiced in different municipalities across the province.
“Inside the DLMSC, ongoing training is being conducted for our chess event, while the rest of the sports events are held in schools or other identified playing venues. Some sports, like wushu and boxing, are held in Bayugan City as they require a more rigid training program,” said Rill Lagulao, sports development officer of PGAS.
Coaches closely guide their athletes during training sessions, observing their performance and identifying areas for improvement. Different styles and techniques are taught to ensure better results in CRAG 2026.
“I observe their movements, and once I assess them, that’s the time I plan drills to enhance their posture, frame, and overall execution in the modern standard category,” said Rezael Pagusara, Department of Education (DepEd) dance sport trainer. “In Latin, there are only a few improvements needed, especially in footwork, provided they are well-trained and ready.”
Each coach implements a different approach and training program for both individual and team sports. Team sports tournaments require a combination of high-level physical preparation, strategic planning, and a cohesive team culture.
“For our football players, we follow a cycle program. Every day, they focus on different skills such as dribbling, passing, ball control using different parts of the body, and shooting. These are part of their weekly routine,” said Gerry Peñaranda, football coach.
“We play football in different places and aim to complete 40 to 60 matches to build their confidence and refine their skills to achieve our goal at the national level,” he added.
The DLMSC is also accommodating athletes from different provinces in the Caraga Region for their training. The use of the facilities is carefully scheduled to avoid disrupting the training of AgSur athletes. March 2, 2026, is the tentative date for their departure to Surigao City. The winners of CRAG 2026 will represent the Caraga region in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa 2026 hosted by the province of Agusan del Sur. (KKRG, PIA Agusan del Sur with a report from PTV Agusan del Sur)
