By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is eyeing Bacolod City as one of the next major hubs in their expanding grassroots sports program as the agency continues rolling out regional training centers across the country.

The PSC identified Bacolod among the cities being prepared for future training facilities following the formal launch of a regional training center for gymnastics and swimming in Dagupan City, Pangasinan.

PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio said the agency remains committed to decentralizing sports development by bringing world-class training opportunities closer to communities outside Metro Manila.

“We believe talent should be nurtured where it is found. By establishing regional training centers, we ensure that children don’t have to leave their homes just to access world-class facilities. We bring the opportunities to them,” Gregorio said.

“Our vision is to decentralize access to premium training. Every province deserves the chance to raise its own heroes and champions, without uprooting kids from their communities. You don’t have to come to us, we will go to you,” he added.

The PSC also plans to deploy national team coaches to regional centers to help local athletes and trainers receive elite-level guidance.

Aside from Dagupan, PSC-backed regional training centers have also been established in Bukidnon, Siargao, Zamboanga City, Cauayan in Isabela, and Candon City.

Gregorio said Bacolod, along with Iloilo province’s Passi City, Tayabas, Ormoc, and General Santos City, is among the next areas lined up for future regional training centers.

“This is why we do what we do and why regional training centers must rise across the nation. It is about believing in communities that fight for and protect their children’s dreams. That, ultimately, is the essence of nation-building,” Gregorio said./ASC, WDJ