When our national government agencies and local government units perform beyond expectation in the face of major odds, they deserve to be recognized. Based on recent developments, the Department of Education (DepEd) and the provincial leadership of Agusan del Sur merit the public’s warmest congratulations.

The successful holding of the 2026 Palarong Pambansa in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, is a massive triumph. The Palaro is perhaps one of the truly much-awaited sports events in our country today. What began in 1948 as a modest meet has evolved into the premier showcase of sports excellence among elementary and secondary students, serving as the birthplace of future national sports heroes.

We understand that the 2026 games—which concluded over the weekend—faced serious hurdles. Hosting the event for the first time outside major urban centers brought heavy logistical and economic challenges. There were even persistent rumors of a possible cancellation due to the geopolitical conflict in the Middle East, which triggered global fuel shortages, shipping route disruptions at the Strait of Hormuz, and sudden domestic price spikes.

Yet, despite these massive energy anxieties stretching everyone's budgets, the games proceeded right on schedule. As a debuting host far from traditional hubs, Agusan del Sur seamlessly managed an influx of some 13,000 delegates across 18 regions. Through the stellar coordination of Governor Santiago Cane Jr., provincial officials, and local communities, infrastructure gaps were bridged, and the games concluded without any major disruptions.

So, congratulations to our education officials and to the leadership of the host province. We must also congratulate every single young Filipino athlete who took part, as well as the coaches, trainers, and sports officials who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.

While we applaud the National Capital Region (NCR) for retaining the overall championship and keeping Calabarzon in a close second, our hearts swell with immense pride for our very own delegation. To all the participants, organizers, and the entire contingent from Antipolo City—thank you for carrying our banner with absolute honor, discipline, and sportsmanship. You fought hard, gave your all, and inspired an entire city.

A special piece of history, of course, belongs to the Secondary Boys’ Basketball category. The gold medal went to the roaring contingent from Calabarzon, who dethroned the 2025 Palaro champions, the Davao Region Eagles. What makes this victory genuinely inspiring is that this year’s national champions hail from a relatively small private school right here in our city—St. John’s Wort Integrated School.

Unlike larger institutional powerhouses, this school does not boast a heavily funded sports program. What these young players possessed was an unyielding pride for the uniform they wore and a fierce determination to bring home the gold.

Congratulations to the team, and to their head coach—former San Sebastian Staglets standout and a true Antipoleño—Jasper Magno.

To our basketball champions, and to every member of the Antipolo contingent: You have shown the entire nation the depth of our local talent and the true meaning of grit. You proved that no hurdle is too high when backed by an unstoppable spirit. You are the pride of Antipolo, and you have made us all incredibly proud!