• THERESA MAE DULMAN
Bacolod City officially opened a new P241 million Multi-Purpose Center and Bacolod Skate Park in Barangay Vista Alegre on Saturday.
The facility intends to boost the city’s bid to host the Batang Pinoy National Games in 2026.
The project, initiated in 2023 by the Department of Public Works and Highways Region 6, was unveiled in a turnover ceremony led by Mayor Greg Gasataya and Bacolod Representative Alfredo Benitez.
The complex features a two-story sports center that spans 3,141 square meters which includes a basketball court, a multi-purpose function hall, and a ticket office.
Adjacent to the main building is the 1,355-square-meter Bacolod Skate Park, which is notable for being only the fourth major skate park in the Philippines.
“Sports is our priority, and this will be a big help. Eventually, this can become a training center for skating and other sports,” Gasataya said.
The Multi-Purpose Center includes rental spaces, an administrative office, storage rooms, kitchen and food preparation facilities, showers, and laundry areas.
Benitez noted the investment could spark renewed interest in local sports.
“Their interest is finally back, and we’re hoping Bacolod can soon produce internationally recognized athletes,” he said.
The venue will host the 1st Mayor Greg Gasataya MassKara BMX and Skateboarding Competition on October 12.*
