NEWS RELEASE 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗠𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶-𝗔𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗦𝗲𝗻𝗱-𝗢𝗳𝗳 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗮 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲

May 5, 2026

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur, May 4, 2026—A strong sense of unity, readiness, and shared responsibility marked the Multi-Agency Send-Off Ceremony for the Palarong Pambansa 2026 led by the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur at the Datu Lipus Makapandong Cultural Center, Naliyagan Grounds, Patin-ay, Prosperidad.

Officials of the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur, headed by Governor Santiago B. Cane Jr. and Vice Governor Patricia Anne B. Plaza, were joined by members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, the Department of Education, led by Regional Director Maria Ines C. Asuncion, CESO III, and representatives of various national government agencies. The gathering underscored the strong coordination among agencies tasked to ensure the successful hosting of the national sporting event.

Reflecting on their commitment and preparations for hosting the games, Governor Cane declared: “The measurement of man’s success, is gauged when he squirms out of hardships and become victorious. That is the brand of leadership in Agusan del Sur, the brand of leadership at the Department of Education Regional Office.”

Governor Cane likewise articulated, “We struggled, and in our struggle we came up with so many plans.” He expressed confidence in the leadership of DepEd Caraga Regional Director Maria Ines C. Asuncion, CESO III, who, during her tenure in Region XI, had already hosted the Palarong Pambansa. He also noted the expertise of Board Member and Steering Committee Chair Avalota Cejas, for her experience as a former DepEd official.

Vice Governor Plaza echoed this sentiment, assuring the public that “the trust and confidence of Agsurnon people as well as their support is with us.“ She affirmed that the province is moving forward with high hopes and optimism for Palarong Pambansa 2026.

The send-off followed the regular flag raising ceremony, which highlighted unity, preparedness, and the collective effort of technical working groups, uniformed personnel, and partner agencies.

The ceremony was further enriched by a moment of solemnity as Rev. Fr. Romeo G. Garcia of the Diocese of Prosperidad led the blessing of the technical working groups, along with the newly deployed equipment and vehicles. He also blessed the everyone in attendance.

The flag raising ceremony was sponsored by the Provincial Budget Office and the Philippine Statistics Authority, marking a meaningful start to the week while recognizing the vital role of public servants in delivering efficient and responsive government services, particularly as the province gears up to host the Palarong Pambansa 2026 set to commence on May 24, 2026.

By: The Public Affairs Unit

DepEd Caraga

For more information, contact (085) 221-1151, 0961-737-0873, or 0915-808-4734. Website: www.caraga.deped.gov.ph; email: caraga@deped.gov.ph; pau_caraga@deped.gov.ph.

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