BACOLOD City — Bacolod will host the Philippine Sports Expo (PSE) 2026 in April, marking the city’s debut as the event’s venue and further cementing its status as the sports capital of the region.
The expo will be the third major sports event hosted by the city in 2026, following the Batang Pinoy National Youth Games and the Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) National Games, which are scheduled from May 18 to 25.
Mayor Greg Gasataya recently expressed strong support for hosting the PSE, noting the event’s potential to boost Bacolod’s sports tourism and elevate the city’s profile as a premier venue for national competitions.
PSE Event Director Rachelle Villarosa highlighted Bacolod’s strengths as a host city, citing its accessibility, modern sports facilities, and vibrant local sports culture. “Hosting the PSE is projected to deliver a strong tourism and economic boost across accommodation, food services, transportation, expo suppliers, and local micro-enterprises,” Villarosa said, adding that the event is expected to attract over 15,000 participants and visitors.
The sports expo is designed to serve as a platform for the discovery, development, and exposure of young athletes, providing a launchpad for the next generation of Negrense and Bacolodnon sports talents. “Over the next three years, the region is expected to see growth in sports tourism, local sports businesses, and better opportunities for local athletes,” Villarosa added.
The PSE will feature approximately 7,500 young athletes competing in more than 17 sports disciplines, including basketball, volleyball, pickleball, football, taekwondo, table tennis, archery, boxing, arnis, marathon, motorsports, swimming, billiards, weightlifting, e-sports, wrestling, and more.
One of the highlights of the event will be the skateboarding competition, set to take place at the largest covered skate park and multi-purpose center with a basketball court in Barangay Vista Alegre.
With the PSE joining Bacolod’s already packed sports calendar, city officials are optimistic that the expo will leave a lasting impact on local sports development and tourism in the region./PN
