By CESAR JOLITO III

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) commended the Bacolod City government for strengthening its sports tourism initiatives as the city prepares to host the 2026 Batang Pinoy National Championships later this year.

During the signing of the memorandum of agreement on Saturday, May 9 for Bacolod’s hosting of the national youth games on December 12 to 18, PSC Chairman John Patrick Gregorio said the city continues to position itself as an emerging sports destination through investments in grassroots sports and sports infrastructure.

Gregorio said Bacolod’s combination of sports programs, tourism appeal, food culture, and hospitality makes it an ideal venue for national sporting events.

He also noted that sports tourism contributes to local economic activity, as athletes are often accompanied by families and supporters during competitions.

More than 15,000 delegates from across the country are expected to participate at Batang Pinoy, which will feature athletes aged eight to 15.

The PSC chief also encouraged the city government to continue pursuing opportunities to host major sporting events, describing it as a strategic move for tourism and development.

Bacolod is currently hosting the National Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) Games 2026 and is also set to host the FIBA U-18 Women’s Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers 2026 from June 2 to 6.

Mayor Greg Gasataya thanked the PSC for once again selecting Bacolod as host of the Batang Pinoy Games.

The city previously hosted the tournament in 1999, 2001 and 2014.

Gasataya said the city remains committed to supporting athletes and developing future national-level competitors, expressing hopes that Bacolod could eventually produce Olympians.

Aside from granting the hosting rights for Batang Pinoy 2026, the PSC is also studying the possible establishment of a regional training hub for archery and baseball in Bacolod, citing the presence of promising local athletes in both sports./CJ, WDJ