By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The Negros Occidental provincial government has released a total of P1.35 million in cash incentives to student-athletes who delivered podium finishes in the inaugural Negros Island Region Athletic Association Meet (NIRAAM) held in March.

Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson personally led the awarding ceremony at the Capitol Social Hall, joined by Department of Education’s Negros Occidental Schools Governance and Operations Division chief Romeo Sison, Sr.

In his message, Lacson commended the athletes for bringing honor to the province, saying their victories embody both sporting excellence and Negrense pride.

A total of 417 gold medalists received P1,500 each, amounting to P625,500.

Meanwhile, 236 silver medalists were awarded P1,000 each for a total of P236,000, and 104 bronze medalists got P800 each, totaling P83,200.

The remaining funds were allocated to the coaches and trainers who guided the athletes in their respective events.

Among the standout performers was swimmer Ethan Base from Doña Hortencia Salas Benedicto National High School in La Carlota City, who emerged as the most bemedalled athlete of NIRAAM 2026 after securing seven gold medals.

The gold medalists are set to represent the Negros Island Region in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa, scheduled from May 24 to 31 in Agusan del Sur./ASC, WDJ