Legazpi: About 10,000 student athletes, coaches, and delegates are expected to arrive here this week for the Palarong Bicol 2026, the Department of Education (DepEd) 5 (Bicol) announced Wednesday. DepEd-5 Director Gilbert Sadsad said the annual regional sporting event is scheduled from March 1 to 7, with the Schools Division Office of Legazpi and the city government serving as hosts. According to Philippines News Agency, delegations will be accommodated in designated billeting quarters, most of which are conveniently located near event venues. "With the strong and very supportive local government unit of Legazpi and other stakeholders, we are confident that Legazpi City's hosting of the event anew will be good, safe, and orderly," Sadsad said in a media statement. He mentioned that the city has assured the safety of athletes in both billeting quarters and playing venues despite Mayon Volcano's ongoing volcanic activity. The local government remains on alert for any possible impact should the volcano show fu rther signs of unrest. The opening ceremonies at the Bicol University Sports Complex on March 1 will feature a parade of athletes, presentation of delegations, and the symbolic lighting of the torch. Before the opening day, the Executive Larong Bicolnon will be held at the Legazpi City Science High School, where officials play traditional Filipino games to promote cultural heritage, a practice observed in recent years.