By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN
PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur — Agusan del Sur is nearly ready to host the Palarong Pambansa 2026, with playing venues and billeting quarters now at 97.25 percent completion, officials said during a press conference held at the Provincial Research Development and Innovation Office and via Zoom on Monday.
Department of Education Caraga Regional Director Maria Ines A. Asuncion commended the province for its preparations, citing its systematic planning, inter-agency coordination and readiness to accommodate athletes, coaches, officials and delegations from across the country.
She said the province’s hosting should not only ensure a well-managed national sporting event but also encourage visitors to return to Agusan del Sur and the Caraga region for future engagements.
Provincial officials said financial, logistical, safety and transportation preparations were already in place. Vice Gov. Patricia Ann Plaza said P80 million had been raised through the support of local and national partners to help fund the hosting, while Gov. Santiago Cane Jr. assured that the province was determined to deliver a successful Palarong Pambansa.
Most playing venues and billeting quarters have been completed, with only final improvements being carried out based on recommendations from tournament directors. Officials said all billeting quarters were fully air-conditioned, while accredited homestays had also been prepared for visitors. They also warned that reports of overpricing may be brought directly to the provincial government for immediate action.
Emergency and safety measures have also been laid out, with rescue and medical response teams assigned to every playing venue. The province is working with the Department of Health, Office of Civil Defense, municipal disaster risk reduction offices across Caraga and other agencies to provide patient transport vehicles and emergency support.
A request for air ambulance assistance from the Philippine Air Force has also been filed.
Organizers said contingency plans were in place for power interruptions, water supply concerns and extreme weather conditions. These include the deployment of generators, CCTV systems, Starlink internet connectivity and trained personnel to help manage operations during the games.
Transportation arrangements for delegations arriving from ports and airports have also been finalized. Traffic and security measures were prepared in coordination with the Security and Traffic Committee and the Highway Patrol Group, with police marshals assigned to escort delegations between billeting quarters and playing venues.
The province is also highlighting sustainability and local pride during the national games. Emergency drills have been conducted, cleanup and beautification efforts have been strengthened, and a ban on single-use plastics will be implemented within the government center. About 18,000 reusable water tumblers will also be distributed to participants.
Officials said the event would showcase the province’s culture and identity through the official icon “Palaro Tu Agsur,” as Agusan del Sur prepares to welcome athletes and visitors for what local leaders hope will be a safe, inclusive and memorable Palarong Pambansa 2026.
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