Bacolod City is officially preparing to welcome the Batang Pinoy 2026 after the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) formalized its partnership with the local government for the hosting of the national youth sports event scheduled from Dec. 12 to Dec. 18. The agreement marks the city’s renewed role as a key venue for grassroots sports development in the country.
The partnership was sealed through a memorandum of agreement signed by Mayor Greg Gasataya and PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio during a ceremony held at the main lobby of the Government Center on Saturday. The event was witnessed by Commissioners Olivia Co and Edward Hayco, along with Vice Mayor Claudio Jesus Puentevella, highlighting strong institutional support for the upcoming games.
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Bacolod’s Return as a Batang Pinoy Host
In his remarks, Gregorio pointed out the historical significance of Bacolod once again hosting the competition, noting that the city was the venue of the inaugural edition 26 years ago during the term of then-sports commissioner Monico Puentevella. He said the return of the games to Bacolod reflects a strengthened relationship between the PSC and the local government.
“It is only fitting that after 25 years, it is back here in Bacolod. It is good to strengthen the collaboration between the PSC and the city,” said Gregorio.
He also underscored Bacolod’s growing identity as a destination for both sports and tourism, describing it as a strong direction for local development.
“The positioning of Bacolod as a sports and tourism destination is a perfect combination. You can’t go wrong with it,” he said.
Gregorio further explained that combining sports and tourism can generate significant economic returns, citing a study indicating that every peso spent in the sector can produce up to P15 in return.
Expected Growth in Participation and Economic Activity
With the Batang Pinoy age bracket adjusted to 8 to 15 years old from the previous 12 to 17, organizers expect a surge in participation, with around 15,000 delegates anticipated for the 2026 edition. Because younger athletes will be traveling with guardians, officials estimate that total arrivals could reach up to 45,000, significantly increasing local economic activity during the event.
Gregorio encouraged the city to maximize the opportunity, emphasizing the broader impact of hosting large-scale sporting events on local economies and communities.
Local Commitment and National Significance
Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya expressed gratitude to the PSC for entrusting the city once again with the hosting duties. He emphasized the city’s commitment to developing young athletes and strengthening its sports programs.
“The only thing we wanted to happen is for Bacolod City to produce the next Olympian. That is why we are giving our full commitment and doing everything we can to support our athletes,” Gasataya said.
This will mark the fourth time Bacolod will host the Batang Pinoy, following previous editions in 1999, 2001, and 2013. The event is expected to not only strengthen grassroots sports development but also boost tourism, hospitality, and local business activity in the city, benefits that directly translate into wider opportunities for residents, especially in host communities across the Philippines.
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