DepEd secretary lauds Agusan Sur’s world-class sports facilities for Palarong Pambansa 2026
By Niña Jonalyn B. Gambe-Diamante
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — “World-class.” That is how Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Juan Edgardo ‘Sonny’ Angara described the newly constructed playing venue of the provincial government of Agusan del Sur (PGAS) as he tested it in a friendly basketball match between DepEd central and regional office heads.
“Sa ganda ng sports facilities, siguradong walang aayaw kapag nabigyan ng pagkakataong makalaro (With the outstanding sports facilities, I’m sure that no one will refuse when given the chance to play in it),” Angara said, expressing amazement at the meticulous planning and execution put into the sports arena.
He also paid tribute to the late Agusan del Sur Governor Democrito O. Plaza, who initiated the construction of the province’s massive 5,000-seating capacity sports complex decades ago. The facility has now become the official venue for the opening and closing ceremonies of the Palarong Pambansa 2026.
Plaza was also the visionary behind Agusan del Sur’s hosting of the country’s largest sporting event.
“Special tribute and recognition go to the late Agusan del Sur Governor Democrito Plaza, who decades ago initiated the construction of the sports complex in Prosperidad with the vision that one day it would host the Palarong Pambansa. Today, we are honored to stand with DepEd in helping turn that vision into reality—not only as the fulfillment of a long-held dream, but as a proud and meaningful milestone for the people of Agusan, showcasing their dedication, talent, and enduring spirit to the entire nation,” Angara expounded.
In support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to enhance the country's sports infrastructure, Agusan del Sur invested heavily in the expansion and modernization of the D.O. Plaza Memorial Sports Complex for the 2026 Palarong Pambansa. Several new facilities were constructed to meet Olympic and NBA standards, including:
· Olympic-size Swimming Pool — 50m × 25m, 10 lanes with touchpads, separate diving pool, seating capacity: 1,500
· NBA-standard Basketball Gym — Hardwood court with retractable bleachers, seating capacity: 2,000
· Rhythmic Gymnastics Gym — Retractable bleachers, seating capacity: 800
· EOC Evacuation Center — Multipurpose facility with NBA-standard court, seating capacity: 2,000
· Football Field with Artificial Turf — 6,160 m² field integrated with athletics oval
· Commissary Building — Modern kitchen and function halls for athletes and officials
· Additional Courts & Fields — Tennis courts, baseball field, multipurpose covered courts
Athletes, coaches, and spectators have echoed Angara’s commendation, praising the extreme preparations made by Agusan del Sur to meet—and even exceed—the standards set by the Palarong Pambansa national board. Their collective feedback stands as a testament not only to the province’s readiness to host the games but also its determination to provide a truly world-class experience for the entire sporting community. (NJGD, PIA Caraga)
