Sagay city: Sagay City in Negros Occidental won the championship in the Girls 14 Under Division of the 2026 PONY International Softball World Series held in McAllen, Texas in the United States on Monday (Philippine time).

According to Philippines News Agency, the Negrense softbelles swept Mexico's RXII Kino Team in the finals to clinch the title after finishing only fourth in last year's tournament. Sagay City OIC-Schools Division Superintendent Dannie Clark Uguil expressed pride in a Facebook post, highlighting how the young athletes battled through 11 games from the elimination round to the championship, rising above more than 30 teams.

Uguil emphasized that the Negrense student-athletes' achievement reflects teamwork, discipline, resilience, and unwavering determination. He extended congratulations to the players, coaches, parents, and supporters for the historic achievement.

In a statement, Department of Education-Negros Island Region Director Ramir Uytico commended the performance of the team from Sagay City National High School. Uytico stated that this achievement underscores the strength of sports development in the region.

Sagay City Mayor Leo Rafael Cueva lauded the players, coaches, parents, and supporters of Team Sagay softbelles for showcasing the Sagaynon spirit with pride on an international stage. He noted that the athletes have inspired every Sagaynon by demonstrating what dedication and teamwork can achieve, regardless of the outcome.

In 2024, the Philippines, represented by the softball team of Negros Occidental, also took home the title in the Girls 16 Under PONY International World Series held in McAllen, Texas. The champion Filipino squad was composed mostly of players also from Sagay City. Last year, Team Philippines from Sagay City finished third in the Girls 16 Under Division.