By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN
PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur — Governor Santiago Cane, Jr. announced a P1 million reward for homegrown athletes who break national records during the Palarong Pambansa 2026, which will be held in Agusan del Sur from May 24-31, 2026.
Speaking at a press conference on April 6, Cane emphasized that the prize is for athletes who set national records, not just Palaro records, and the records must be duly certified by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).
“We want to challenge our athletes to break national records and make history,” Cane said.
The announcement follows Christine Castro’s near-record performance in the 100-meter hurdles at the Caraga Regional Athletic Games (CRAG) in Surigao City earlier this month. Castro clocked 14.59 seconds, just shy of the 13.41-second national record. Cane, a former athlete, noted that Castro could have broken the record if she hadn’t looked back and slowed down near the finish line.
“She was almost there,” Cane said. “She would have broken the record if she stayed focused until the end.”
Agusan del Sur’s athletes showcased their skill by becoming the overall champions at CRAG 2026, winning 133 golds, 102 silvers, and 87 bronzes for a total of 322 medals. Cane praised their performance, stating it highlighted their discipline and determination.
Cane, who won a gold medal in weightlifting at the Palarong Pambansa 1997 and a silver medal in hammer throw at the 1978 National Track and Field Championships, believes in the power of sports to inspire young people.
Maria Ines C. Asuncion, Department of Education Caraga Regional Director, updated the press on preparations for the upcoming games, stating that they are 80% complete, with facilities and venues expected to be ready by April 30, 2026.
She also addressed rumors about the event’s cancellation due to the national energy emergency declared by President Marcos, saying, “The event will continue unless we hear otherwise from Malacañang.”
Cane echoed Asuncion’s comments, saying, “There are no plans to postpone the event. We’re moving forward as scheduled.”
The provincial government has invested P1.8 billion since 2019 in the rehabilitation of the Datu Lipus Makapandong DO Plaza Sports Complex, which will serve as a world-class venue for the games.
This year’s Palarong Pambansa is expected to attract 18,000 to 20,000 delegates from 18 regions, along with delegations from the National Academy of Sports (NAS) and Philippine Schools Overseas (PSO).
This will be the first time in 37 years that Agusan del Sur will host the event, following a previous unsuccessful bid during the term of the late Governor Democrito O. Plaza.
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