MANILA, Philippines – Thousands of student-athletes, delegates, and spectators are expected to attend the 66th Palarong Pambansa from May 24 to May 31.

Every year, host cities pull out all the stops to make the annual sporting event an enjoyable experience for everyone. For instance, in last year’s edition hosted by Ilocos Norte, spectators and athletes were given the opportunity to send exclusive postcards to their loved ones anywhere in the Philippines and internationally.

As Agusan del Sur takes the reins as host for the 2026 games, they’ve prepared several unique offerings for everyone to enjoy.

Libreng sakay

The competitions for each sport in Palarong Pambansa often happen simultaneously or one after the other — with the playing venues usually being far apart. This time, it seems that delegates (officials and coaches) and spectators will no longer need to worry about getting around the 36 venues, as Agusan del Sur is offering free rides.

LIBRENG SAKAY. Agusan del Sur implements ‘libreng sakay’ program to offer free rides to spectators and delegates of the 66th Palarong Pambansa. Photo courtesy of Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur

There will be e-buses and tricycles stationed across all the playing venues in Bayugan City and in the municipalities of Bunawan, Esperanza, Talacogon, Prosperidad, and San Francisco.

Complimentary tours

From May 17 to 22 and May 27 to June 1, student-athletes, coaches and officials can explore 13 tourist sites in Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur — all free of charge.

Transportation and entrance fees to the destinations will be covered, but extra costs like food and additional activities will be shouldered by the athletes and delegates themselves.

Those interested in availing the free tours can contact 09925009677, or head to the Provincial Tourism Office of Agusan del Sur at the Gov. Democrito O. Plaza Government Center in Patin-ay, Prosperidad.

Ethno Village

Touted as one of the main highlights of Agusan del Sur’s stint as Palarong Pambansa host, the Ethno Village aims to showcase the rich history and tradition of the province and its municipalities. Acting as an exhibit, this space will feature an expansive lineup of booths, where visitors can get their hands on native delicacies and handcrafted items, and see different cultural displays.

There will also be designated rest areas for the athletes to stay in between games. Each region has its own dugout.

CULTURAL DISPLAYS. Each municipality in Agusan del Sir has a designated booth. Photo courtesy of the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur ETHNO VILLAGE. Agusan del Sur’s Ethno Village for the 66th Palarong Pambansa features booths that house local products from the province and the neighboring Surigao del Sur. Photo courtesy of the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur

The 2026 Palarong Pambansa will officially open on May 24 and close on May 31. In 2025, the National Capital Region took home the title of overall champion for the 18th straight year. – Rappler.com