Negros Island Region (NIR) aims to finish among the Top 5 in the 2026 National Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) Games which kicks off in Bacolod City on Sunday, May 10.

Last year in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, NIR ranked sixth in the senior division and fifth in the youth division.

“We hope that our collegiate level will also be in the Top 5 this year. We believe in the capability of our athletes to give their best,” PRISAA-NIR President Ryan Mark Molina said in a press conference at the San Sebastian Cathedral function hall Saturday.

Also present were PRISAA National Executive Director Elbert Atilano, Jr. and PRISAA-NIR Executive Director Jake Lauren Mercado.

The PRISAA-NIR was formed in 2023 to foster sports development, camaraderie and academic excellence among private institutions in Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental and Siquijor.

Twelve schools, namely Colegio de Sta. de Victorias, Colegio San Agustin – Bacolod, John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation, La Consolation College, North Negros College, Southland College, VMA Global College, University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos, University of St. La Salle and STI West Negros University in Negros Occidental, and Colegio de Santa Catalina de Alejandra and Foundation University in Negros Oriental, joined the first PRISAA-NIR meet in 2024.

Meanwhile, athletes from 17 regions are taking part in 22 sports in this year’s edition, which also features three cultural (Vocal Solo & Duet, PRISAAYAWAN dance contest and Mutya ng PRISAA beauty pageant) and two academic (Oration and Brain Masters) events.

All sports, except boxing (Bago City) and football (Talisay City), will be held in various venues here.

For the smooth conduct of the Games, the PRISAA has partnered with Bacolod City, provincial government of Negros Occidental, Commission on Higher Education, Department of Education and Philippine Sports Commission.

Law enforcers, health workers and local officials are also assigned in every venue to support the delegates.

Last year, Soccsksargen (Region 12) topped the senior division with 128 gold, 104 silver and 55 bronze medals, while Western Visayas (Region 6) dominated the youth division with 99-71-73. (PNA)