• THERESA MAE DULMAN
Bacolod City has allocated P27 million to host the first-ever Negros Island Region Athletic Association Meet (NIRAAM), scheduled to take place from March 1 to 7.
Aside from the hosting budget, Mayor Greg Gasataya has also secured an additional P30.5 million to support the needs of over 900 Bacolodnon athletes competing under the division of Bacolod City.
The P30 million budget was earmarked for the complete training gear, playing uniforms, athletic shoes, and P300 daily allowance for the 30-day training of the athletes.
Councilor Jude Thaddeus Sayson, chair of the Committee on Finance and Appropriation, confirmed that the Sangguniang Panlungsod approved the funds from the city’s Special Education Fund.
The city is preparing for the influx of visitors, as an estimated 15,000 athletes, coaches, and delegates are expected to arrive starting February 28.
Based on a Memorandum issued by the Department of Education – NIR, 12 provincial and city delegations will compete, including Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, Siquijor, Bacolod City, Bais City, Bayawan City, Canlaon City, Dumaguete City, Guihulngan City, Kabankalan City, Silay City, and Tanjay City.
Education Secretary Juan Edgardo ‘Sonny’ Angara is slated to be the guest of honor during the grand opening ceremony, which will be held at the Panaad Park and Stadium at 3:00 p.m. on March 1.
The inaugural regional meet will feature 28 elementary and 45 secondary sports events across various disciplines.
While Bacolod City serves as the primary host, some competitions will be spread out to neighboring cities such as Talisay, Silay, and Victorias, to accommodate the heavy athletic schedule.
Athletes competing in this event are vying for the chance to represent the Negros Island Region in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa 2026.*
