PBBM shows support to Agusan Sur teachers, Palarong Pambansa 2026
By Niña Jonalyn B. Gambe-Diamante
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — On behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Secretary Anton Lagdameo Jr. visited the province of Agusan del Sur on May 24, to lead two landmark events that underscore the administration’s agenda on education, youth development, and sports.
More than 1,500 newly promoted public school teachers across the Caraga region took their oath of office, administered by Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Juan Edgardo ‘Sonny’ Angara.
Delivered by Secretary Lagdameo, President Marcos’ message acknowledged the hardships that teaching personnel endure to get promoted, including paperwork and documentation.
The enactment of Republic Act No. 12288 came as an answered prayer for thousands of teachers nationwide as it institutionalized the Expanded Career Progression (ECP) system through which teacher promotion is made easier through reclassification, introduction of new teaching ranks, and streamlined documentary requirements.
“Sa ilalim ng sistemang ito, mas malinaw na ngayon ang landas para sa pag-angat ng ating mga guro. Mayroon nang dalawang landas na maaaring pagpilian ninyong mga guro—ang classroom teaching o school administration. Mas pinalawak nito ang mga oportunidad na akma sa inyong kakayahan at piniling trabaho” (Under this system, the career path and progress of our teachers are made clear. You now have two paths to choose from—classroom teaching or school administration. More opportunities await teachers in consideration of their capabilities and chosen field), said the President.
In a nutshell, President Marcos’s message emphasized the government’s continuing efforts to uplift the teaching profession, improve the quality of education, and provide better opportunities for educators who play a vital role in shaping the nation’s future.
After the ceremony, the President proceeded to the opening of the Palarong Pambansa 2026, officially branded as ‘Palaro Tu Agsur.’ The event gathered thousands of athletes, coaches, and delegates nationwide.
In a recorded video message, President Marcos warmly greeted the Palarong Pambansa athletes, who continue to bring not only pride to their respective schools and regions, but also inspiration to their fellow youth.
One of the highlights of the program was the President’s good news to the athletes of regular and paragames who will bring home medals in their respective sports events: “Masaya akong ibabalita sa inyo, sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon, maglalaan ang Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) ng mga incentive para sa mga medalista sa regular sports at sa paragames bilang pagkilala sa inyong husay (I am happy to announce to you that, for the very first time, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) will be providing incentives for medalists in both regular sports and the Para Games as recognition of your excellence.),”
The announcement was met with cheers and heartfelt gratitude from the athletes, as the incentives serve not only as a reward for their hard work but also as a powerful motivation to excel further. This initiative from the President validates their sacrifices and strengthens their resolve to bring honor to the country, proving that their efforts in both regular sports and the Paralympic Games are valued at the highest level.
The day became historic for the province, combining the celebration of educational milestones with the spirit of sportsmanship, in line with the President’s broader agenda to strengthen the pillars of education, youth development, and sports in the country. (NJGD, PIA Caraga)