The Department of Education (DepEd) on Tuesday lauded the provincial government of Agusan del Sur for its Libreng Sakay (free rides) and free tourism activities for the 2026 Palarong Pambansa delegates.

This comes as the agency prepares for the upcoming 66th national sporting event from May 24 to 31.

In a statement, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara commended Agusan del Sur officials, led by Gov. Santiago Cane Jr., for ensuring easier mobility and tour opportunities for athletes, coaches and teachers.

“Sa pamamagitan ng Libreng Sakay at libreng tours ng Agusan del Sur, mas magiging magaan, masaya, at makabuluhan ang karanasan ng ating mga atleta at delegado (Through the free rides and free tours, there will be a lighter, happier and more meaningful experience for our athletes and delegates),” he said.

Under the Libreng Sakay, delegates and spectators may enjoy free transportation via designated e-buses and tricycles stationed across 36 playing venues located in Bayugan City, Bunawan, Esperanza, Talacogon, Prosperidad and San Francisco.

Delegates may also join complimentary tours to several tourist destinations and cultural landmarks across Agusan del Sur and neighboring Surigao del Sur.

Among the featured destinations are Tugonan Falls, Bega Falls and Ecotourism Park, Puting Buhangin Cave, Agusan Provincial Museum, Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, Toog Centennial Tree and various ecotourism and agricultural sites across the province.

The Bretania Group of Islands and the Enchanted River in Surigao del Sur are also part of the program through the partnership between the provincial governments of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur.

Tour schedules will run from May 17 to 22 and from May 27 to June 1. Transportation and entrance fees will be covered under the program.

“Nakakatuwa na itong Palaro natin ay isa ring pagkakataon para maranasan ng ating mga kabataan ang malasakit, kultura, at ganda ng iba’t ibang bahagi ng bansa (It’s pleasing to note that the Palaro can also be an opportunity for our youth to experience hospitality, culture and the beauty of different parts of our country),” Angara said.

“These efforts remind our young athletes that every competition is also an opportunity to discover new places, cultures and stories while building friendships and discipline through sports.” (PNA)