The 2026 Palarong Pambansa is bringing more than athletic competition to the Caraga Region; it is fueling a surge in local tourism, with Bislig City in Surigao del Sur emerging as a major beneficiary.
In a statement on Friday, the Bislig City government said 180 visitors, including athletes and coaches, flocked to Tinuy-an Falls, also known as the “Little Niagara of the Philippines,” and to the Bislig Baywalk, one of the city’s landmarks, on Thursday.
The tourists who arrived at the tourist spots came from across the country, including the National Capital Region, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon), Western Visayas, Negros Island Region and various provinces in Mindanao.
“We are so incredibly grateful to all the athletes, coaches, and Palarong Pambansa guests who chose to make memories in our beautiful city. Your visits keep our community thriving and our smiles bright,” the city government said.
As the games continue throughout the week, Bislig City expects more visitors to explore its waterfalls, coastal walks and cultural sites.
In an interview, Department of Tourism – Caraga Region (DOT-13) Director Ivonnie Dumadag said she was moved by the influx of tourists to various destinations in the region as the national games continue.
“We anticipated high visitor traffic for this event, and our preparations, in partnership with the local government units, began as early as last year through training sessions for tourism workers and frontline personnel, and enforcement of standards among tourism establishments via the DOT accreditation process,” Dumadag said.
The DOT-13, she added, hopes to sustain the momentum and always ensure a comfortable stay and seamless travel for visitors in the region.
“We congratulate and thank Bislig City for their support to the Palarong Pambansa’s host province, Agusan del Sur, and co-host, Bayugan City,” Dumadag said.
The ongoing 2026 Palarong Pambansa in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur opened on May 25 and will conclude on Sunday, May 31. (PNA)
