Setting new benchmarks: Agusan Sur earns praises for Palarong Pambansa preps
By Niña Jonalyn B. Gambe-Diamante
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — “We warmly welcome you to the province of Agusan del Sur. And please, do feel at home,” said Governor Santiago B. Cane Jr. of the provincial government of Agusan del Sur (PGAS) as he greeted the arriving delegations of the Palarong Pambansa 2026 from different regions across the country.
PGAS has drawn widespread praise from delegates, coaches, and spectators nationwide for its top-tier hospitality and meticulous preparations for the upcoming ‘Palaro Tu Agsur.’
“We are not doing all these preparations for the accolades. We are doing this because it is the right thing to do. And we are hoping and praying for the successful conduct of the Palarong Pambansa here in our beloved province,” Cane added.
Organizers have elevated the hosting standards by ensuring that the facilities are designed not only for competitive sports but also for a convenient, hassle-free stay for all participants representing the country’s different regions.
Historical firsts, connectivity in accommodations
In a bid to prioritize the well-being of young athletes, the provincial government, in coordination with the different municipalities and cities in Agusan del Sur, introduced several high-end amenities, including connectivity, and achieved a major milestone in the history of the national games.
Air-conditioned accommodations: For the first time in the Palarong Pambansa, all billeting quarters are air-conditioned to ensure that athletes get a good night’s rest after a long day of competing.
Complimentary wifi access: To help participants stay connected with their families and school networks, they are provided with reliable wifi internet access directly inside the billeting quarters.
Customized care kits: Each athlete was provided with customized bed foams, tumblers, and comprehensive hygiene kits, all branded with the official Palaro Tu Agsur logo.
Dedicated rest areas: A specialized rest area for each region was established at the Ethno Village, within the Datu Lipus Makapandong Government Center in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, where athletes and coaches could relax while waiting for their next game.
Free tricycle and shuttle rides: To ease the daily commute, a dedicated “Libreng Sakay” system offers free tricycle and e-bus rides to delegates and spectators until the games last, ensuring smooth transport to and from various competition venues.
Ronald T. Ambrocio, a coach from Davao region, expressed his utmost appreciation to the host province for exceeding their expectations, especially in terms of hospitality and accommodation: “This is not just about providing comfort [to the delegates] after long hours of training and competitions, this is a testament to the genuine hospitality and care of Agusan del Sur for their guests.”
He also commended the province’s efforts to make every athlete and delegate feel valued, welcomed, and at home.
Warm welcome and free tours
The province also showcased its vibrant local culture and tourism. Upon arriving at their respective billeting quarters, delegations from across the Philippines were greeted with traditional cultural dances performed by local artists.
To further enrich their experience outside the sporting arenas, the provincial tourism office (PTO) has organized free recreational tours for all athletes and delegates, allowing them to explore Agusan del Sur’s top tourist destinations.
Tight security and disaster readiness
To ensure the smooth flow of the multi-sport event, Agusan del Sur coordinated with regional line agencies to heavily invest in security and emergency response protocols.
Over 2,000 uniformed personnel have been deployed across the entire province to secure playing venues, billeting quarters, and strategic public spaces.
Complementing the security forces is the active deployment of the Regional Incident Management Team (RIMT). The disaster response unit is spearheaded by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga and the Caraga Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC), ensuring a swift, coordinated reaction to any medical or logistical emergencies.
With these comprehensive measures in place, Agusan del Sur’s hosting continues to receive high marks from sports officials and visiting delegations alike, setting a new benchmark for future Palarong Pambansa events. (NJGD, PIA Caraga/Photo courtesy of Allen Rose Estudillo)
