BACOLOD City – As Western Visayas wrapped up its final year with Negros Occidental in its roster by clinching third place in the 2025 Palarong Pambansa, the provincial government rewarded its winning athletes with nearly P1 million in cash incentives.
A total of P941,500 was distributed to Negrense medalists — 18 gold, 20 silver, and 21 bronze — for their outstanding performances in the national games held in Ilocos Norte from May 24 to 31.
Each gold medal earned P10,000; silver P7,000; and bronze P4,500.
Additional cash incentives were awarded to athletes who set new records, as well as to their coaches and trainers.
Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and Department of Education – Negros Island Region director Dr. Ramir Uytico personally led the awarding ceremony at the Provincial Capitol Social Hall, praising the athletes for bringing pride to the province in its final stint representing Region 6.
“This is more than just a reward — it’s a salute to your discipline, sacrifice, and love for sport,” said Lacson, noting that starting next year, Negros Occidental will join the newly created Negros Island Region (NIR) along with Negros Oriental and Siquijor for the 2026 Palarong Pambansa.
Meanwhile, Bacolod City is also set to recognize its homegrown achievers, including Palaro medalists, in December through the “Pasidungog Para sa mga Dalayawon nga mga Estudyante kag Humalampang” ordinance.
The local ordinance consolidates three city laws granting cash incentives to topnotchers, academic achievers, and outstanding athletes. Medalists will receive P10,000, P7,000, and P5,000 for gold, silver, and bronze finishes respectively.
City Ordinance No. 880 (Sports Incentives), No. 1006 (Topnotchers Incentive), and No. 08-15-723 (Honor Students Incentives) form the legal backbone of the city’s efforts to promote academic and athletic excellence./PN