ILOILO — The Component City of Passi is setting its sights on hosting the Palarong Pambansa 2028, with Mayor Stephen Palmares announcing an aggressive push to upgrade sports facilities — including the construction of an Olympic-size swimming pool — as part of its bid to bring the national sporting event to the city.
The announcement, made during the opening of the Western Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) Meet 2026 on March 17, signals Passi’s intent to position itself as a viable national sports hub, banking on infrastructure readiness and grassroots development to strengthen its bid.
“Sunod ka da ya nga paninguhaan naton, ang swimming pool. Hay ti kon mag-bid ikaw sa Palarong Pambansa dapat may swimming pool ikaw nga Olympic-size and national standards, so tinguhaan gid naton antes kita mag-bid,” Palmares said.
Beyond the swimming facility, the city government is also working to ensure that all barangays are equipped with sports venues—an initiative seen as both a preparation for hosting duties and a long-term investment in local athletes.
Palmares said hosting the WVRAA Meet serves as a testing ground for improving and organizing playing venues across the city’s barangays, laying the groundwork for larger national events.
He emphasized that the infrastructure push will continue regardless of the outcome of the bidding.
Even if Passi fails to secure the hosting rights, Palmares said the city will proceed with its sports development projects, stressing that these are crucial investments for students and athletes.
The timing of the planned bid aligns with the scheduled return of the Palarong Pambansa to the Visayas in 2028, opening an opportunity for Passi to compete for hosting rights. The 2026 edition, meanwhile, will be held in Agusan del Sur.
Passi City is no stranger to hosting major events. In December 2023, it hosted the 18th National Scout Jamboree attended by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., and has also staged national sporting events such as the Philippine Basketball Association and the Premier Volleyball League.
The city’s bid has also gained provincial backing.
“Kon amo na ang gusto sang Passi, I support them asta sa masarangan naton,” said Iloilo’s Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr./PN
