• THERESA MAE DULMAN
Bacolod City is finalizing preparations to host two major sporting events, the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup SEABA qualifiers and the Batang Pinoy 2026 national championships.
The international basketball tournament is scheduled to take place from June 2 to 6, while the Batang Pinoy games are set for December 12 to 18.
Mayor Greg Gasataya said the double hosting duty aligns with the city government’s strategic push to establish Bacolod as a premier sports tourism and development hub in the region.
He said that the city has been upgrading its sports infrastructure to meet international standards, including the development of the Bacolod Coliseum and the new Multi-Purpose Center and Skatepark in Barangay Vista Alegre for the Batang Pinoy 2025.
Gasataya confirmed that the venues for the Batang Pinoy, along with various local schools for billeting, have undergone inspection by organizers to ensure readiness for thousands of visiting athletes and coaches.
The mayor added that the sports activities will provide a significant platform for homegrown talent while generating a boost for local businesses and the hospitality sector.
Meanwhile, City Administrator Atty. Mark Steven Mayo said that the possible venues for the FIBA U18 will be the STI West Negros University and the SM Skyhall.
He added that other venues such as the Bacolod City College Gymnasium will serve as the practice area, while the accommodations will be handled by the organizers of the participating countries.*
