Bacolod City Government Approves Major Funding for Historic Regional Sports Event
The Bacolod City Government has officially allocated P30.5 million for the hosting of the inaugural Negros Island Region Athletic Association Meet (Niraam) 2026, scheduled to take place from March 1 to 7, 2026. This significant financial commitment underscores the city's dedication to promoting sports development and regional unity through athletic competition.
Council Approval and Funding Details
Councilor Jude Thaddeus Sayson, who chairs the Committee on Finance and Appropriation, confirmed that the City Council has already approved the funds following a formal request from Mayor Greg Gasataya. The allocated amount will specifically cover expenses related to the city's hosting responsibilities, including the construction and improvement of billeting areas for athletes across various schools. These facilities will be managed by the Schools Division of Bacolod City, which is serving as the host city for this landmark event.
In addition to the P30.5 million for hosting, the City Council has also approved P27 million to support the training, allowances, and coaching needs of Bacolod City's athletes participating in various sports events. Sayson emphasized that both allocations will be sourced from the City's Special Education Fund (SEF), highlighting the strategic use of educational resources to foster athletic excellence.
Event Scope and Participating Delegations
According to Regional Memorandum 35, Series of 2026, issued by the Department of Education–Negros Island Region (DepEd-NIR), the week-long event will feature a total of 12 provincial and city delegations competing under the theme: "Negros Island Region: stronger, faster, together." The participating delegations include:
- Negros Oriental
- Negros Occidental
- Siquijor
- Bacolod City
- Bais City
- Bayawan City
- Canlaon City
- Dumaguete City
- Guihulngan City
- Kabankalan City
- Silay City
- Tanjay City
The competition will be extensive, with 28 events at the elementary level and 45 events at the secondary level, showcasing a wide range of athletic talents across age groups.
Historical Significance and Future Implications
Councilor Sayson expressed particular excitement about this event, noting its historical significance. "I'm very excited because for the first time, Bacolod City will represent as Bacolod City. In previous regional meets, Bacolod City was part of Negros Occidental, and now under the Negros Island Region (NIR) framework, Bacolod City will separate from Negros Occidental delegations," he said. This shift marks a new chapter in the city's athletic representation and regional identity.
The winners of the Niraam will earn the honor of representing the Negros Island Region in the Palarong Pambansa 2026, the Philippines' premier national sporting event for student-athletes. This adds a layer of importance to the competition, as it serves as a direct pathway to national recognition and further athletic opportunities.
