Bacolod city: This highly urbanized city is gearing up for the hosting of major sports events until 2027 as it positions itself to become a premier center for sports development and sports tourism in the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, more than 12,000 delegates from 17 regions will participate in the 2026 National Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) Games, scheduled from May 9 to 16. The event will commence at the Panaad Park and Stadium on May 9.

Mayor Greg Gasataya, in a statement on Wednesday, emphasized the economic benefits of hosting large-scale sporting events. He noted that these activities positively impact the local economy and reiterated the city's commitment to supporting such events.

For the 2026 National PRISAA Games, the city government has allocated PHP1 million in financial assistance to the organizers and has committed to providing logistical support for transport, venues, billeting areas, and managing peace and order as well as traffic.

Gasataya recently met with National PRISAA Executive Director Jake Mercado and PRISAA - Negros Island Region coordinator Mark Molina to discuss the final preparations for the upcoming sports, cultural, and academic competitions.

Bacolod will host the FIBA U18 Women's Asia Cup Southeast Asia Basketball Association Qualifiers from June 2 to 6. Additionally, the Batang Pinoy 2026, organized by the Philippine Sports Commission, will take place in the city from December 12 to 18. PSC Commissioner Olivia 'Bong' Coo attended a coordination meeting with Gasataya on May 1 to discuss these events.

Bacolod has a history of hosting the Batang Pinoy, having hosted the inaugural games in 1999, as well as in 2001 and 2013. In 2027, Bacolod will also host the Association of Local Colleges (ALCOR) of Region VI and Region XVIII Games. Gasataya mentioned that Bacolod was unanimously chosen by the Commission on Higher Education - Negros Island Region to host the ALCOR Games, highlighting the significant opportunity this presents for the city.