BACOLOD City — Student-athletes from this city delivered a strong performance at the Negros Island Regional Athletic Association Meet (NIRAAM) 2026, capturing the overall championship after topping the medal tally in the week-long regional competition held March 1 to 7 at Panaad Park and Stadium here.
Bacolod’s delegation finished with 165 gold, 102 silver, and 102 bronze medals, dominating multiple sporting events and securing the top spot in the regional meet.
Negros Occidental placed second overall with 150 gold, 152 silver, and 102 bronze medals, while Negros Oriental finished second runner-up with 33 gold, 39 silver, and 59 bronze medals.
Other participating delegations included Dumaguete City, Bayawan City, Kabankalan City, Silay City, Bais City, Guihulngan City, Siquijor, Tanjay City, and Canlaon City.
Mayor Greg G. Gasataya lauded the athletes for their dedication and perseverance, saying their success was built on discipline, sacrifice, and teamwork.
“Trainings before the sun even rose. Nights spent sleeping on the court. Blisters on tired feet. Muscles pushed past their limits. Spirits that refused to give up on a dream — these are the unseen sacrifices that made this victory possible,” Gasataya said.
He added that behind every medal is a young Bacolodnon who pushed beyond personal limits not only for victory but also for teammates and the pride of the city.
“What makes this triumph even more meaningful is the spirit behind it. I witnessed teammates cheering from the sidelines, athletes lifting each other after setbacks, and the entire city rallying behind its youth,” the mayor said.
Top-performing athletes from the regional meet will represent the Negros Island Region in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa 2026 set from May 24 to 31 in Agusan del Sur.
Gasataya expressed confidence that Bacolod’s athletes will continue to excel at the national level while carrying the city’s banner with pride.
“This is only the beginning,” he said, adding that the city government will continue to support the athletes as they compete in the Palarong Pambansa.
The mayor also highlighted Bacolod’s growing role in Philippine sports, noting that the city is preparing to host the PRISAA National Games 2026 and Batang Pinoy 2026 later this year./PN
