By CESAR JOLITO III
The 3rd Negros Island Region (NIR) Sports and Cultural Meet of the Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) formally opened at the STI West Negros University Gymnasium, drawing around 1,500 student-athletes from 21 schools across the region.
The regional sporting event kicked off with a parade of officials and athletes representing participating institutions from Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental and Siquijor, signaling the start of a week-long series of competitions and cultural activities.
The opening program was led by NIR PRISAA and National PRISAA President Dr. Ryan Mark Molina, along with NIR PRISAA Executive Director Dr. Jake Laurence Mercado.
Molina said the regional meet gathered student-athletes competing under the theme, “Inspiring dreams, igniting passion, innovating pathways to the Olympics.”
Among the participating institutions are University of St. La Salle, University of Negros Occidental – Recoletos, Silliman University, Riverside College, Colegio San Agustin – Bacolod, La Consolacion College – Bacolod, St. Scholastica’s Academy – Bacolod, Saint Rose of Lima School – Bacolod, John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation – Bacolod, and VMA Global College, among other schools.
During the ceremony, Molina welcomed the athletes and acknowledged the effort and dedication they invested in preparing for the competition.
He encouraged participants to not only aim for medals but also value the friendships and relationships built during the games, saying that while victories and defeats may be forgotten, the connections formed with fellow athletes and schools will remain.
The opening rites also included the raising of PRISAA and school banners and the lighting of torches symbolizing unity among the participating institutions and the official start of the games.
Karatedo gold medalist Steffi Sarosa of University of St. La Salle led the oath of sportsmanship for the student-athletes, while Mercado administered the oath for technical officials.
The event was also attended by Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson.
In his message of support, Lacson highlighted how the regional meet reflects growing cooperation across the region.
“What was once just a shared geography is now a strong partnership in youth development, education and regional unity,” Lacson said, emphasizing that sports provide a platform for young athletes to showcase their determination and leadership potential.
He encouraged athletes to compete with honor and integrity, reminding them that the greatest achievements they can gain from the competition are character, perseverance and discipline.
Lacson also acknowledged the leadership of Bacolod City officials for supporting the hosting of the regional games in the city, noting that such initiatives strengthen opportunities for young athletes./CJ, WDJ