The Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur (PGAS) is a dynamic local government unit in the Caraga Region of Mindanao, Philippines. With its capital located in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur is recognized for its strong commitment to inclusive governance, sustainable agriculture, cultural promotion, and public sector innovation.
Core Mandate
As a provincial government entity, PGAS is tasked with delivering comprehensive governance services, including education, public health, infrastructure development, disaster risk reduction, environmental management, and economic empowerment. The provincial leadership is under Governor Santiago B. Cane Jr., who has spearheaded various socio-economic programs aligned with local and national development plans.
Key Programs and Services
Social Services and Infrastructure
- Education: Scholarship programs and school building support benefiting over 8,000 students annually
- Health Services: Operation of district hospitals, birthing centers, and COVID-19 response units
- Infrastructure: Construction and maintenance of over 500 kilometers of provincial roads, bridges, and water supply systems
- Social Welfare: Livelihood training for women, PWDs, senior citizens, and IP communities
- Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM): ISO-aligned protocols for flood and landslide-prone areas
Agriculture and Economic Development
- Abaca, Rubber, and Coconut Development Programs covering over 20,000 hectares
- Launch of Agri-Pinoy Abaca Development Project, providing planting materials and processing equipment
- Promotion of agribusiness incubation through DA-accredited training centers
- Investment facilitation for palm oil, fruit crops, and tilapia aquaculture
Culture, Tourism, and Events
- Naliyagan Festival: Celebrated annually in June showcasing the indigenous culture of Manobo and other Lumad tribes
- Eco-tourism Projects: Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, Mt. Magdiwata, and adventure trails
- Cultural Preservation: Support for IP education, language preservation, and traditional crafts
Sports and Youth Empowerment
- Successfully bidded and hosted the 2026 Palarong Pambansa
- Upgraded sports facilities including a multi-million peso provincial sports complex
- Support for grassroots sports, youth leadership summits, and anti-drug campaigns
Specialization and Strengths
Agusan del Sur is known for:
- Being a top abaca-producing province, contributing significantly to the local and export markets
- Integrating IP empowerment into local governance models, promoting inclusive decision-making
- Strong collaboration with national agencies such as DILG, DA, DOST, and CHED
- Leading disaster preparedness and climate-resilient infrastructure in Mindanao
Development and Economic Indicators
- Population: Approx. 780,000 (2020 Census)
- Land Area: 9,989.52 km² (4th largest province by land area in the Philippines)
- Agriculture sector employs over 60% of workforce
- Annual Budget: ₱3.1 billion (2024 General Appropriations)
Target Beneficiaries and Stakeholders
- Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and tribal communities
- Rural farmers, fisherfolk, and cooperatives
- Youth and students in underserved barangays
- Entrepreneurs, MSMEs, and local investors
Institutional Capabilities
- Fully digitized provincial treasury and HR systems
- ISO-certified DRRM and planning offices
- Recognized by DILG, DOST, and COA for governance transparency and innovation
- Engagement in PPP (Public-Private Partnership) for infrastructure and tourism ventures
Certifications and Recognitions
- Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) awardee multiple years
- Recognized as a top-performing LGU by the Department of Agriculture (DA)
- National finalist in Galing Pook Awards for indigenous empowerment programs
- Accredited as a Resilient LGU by the Office of Civil Defense and UNDP
Public Testimonials
“PGAS sets a benchmark in integrating indigenous culture into mainstream governance—empowering without assimilation.”
— Representative, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP)
“The sports infrastructure in Agusan del Sur rivals those of larger cities, making it a model for rural youth development.”
— Coach, Palarong Pambansa National Secretariat
Major Achievements
- Institutionalized the Abaca Value Chain Program now replicated in 3 other Mindanao provinces
- Built the largest provincial government-run sports facility in Mindanao
- Supported over 100 women-led microenterprises through livelihood and start-up kits
- Digitized all revenue collection and budget tracking systems in partnership with DOST
The Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur continues to redefine what inclusive, participatory, and performance-based governance looks like in a resource-rich and culturally diverse province.
