BACOLOD CITY — Bacolod City is all set to host the 2026 Batang Pinoy Games, the country’s premier national youth multisports competition from Dec. 12 to 18, 2026.
Mayor Greg Gasataya said preparations are in full swing, with all systems go for the weeklong event.
The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the Bacolod City government held a major coordination meeting on Wednesday at L’Fisher Hotel to finalize arrangements for the weeklong competition for the Filipino youth.
PSC chairman John Patrick Gregorio said a record 35,894 delegates from 207 local government units nationwide are expected to arrive in Bacolod City, composed of 27,763 athletes, 6,144 coaches, and 1,987 officials.
“This is our gift to the Filipino youth,” Gregorio said, adding that accommodations in the city are expected to be fully occupied throughout the competition period.
In a special highlight, Bacolod City will also stage the Metro Manila Film Festival “Parade of Stars” alongside the sporting events.
Gasataya said the city has a strong track record of hosting major sporting events this year such as the Negros Island Region Athletic Association (Niraa) meet, the National Prisaa Games, and the FIBA under-18 tournament.
“The Batang Pinoy will be a game-changer for youth sports in Bacolod. Imagine thousands of young athletes competing at the biggest grassroots event right in our city,’’ said Gasataya.
“Our children will see firsthand what dedication, discipline, and excellence look like, and that kind of exposure can spark a lifelong passion for sports,” added the mayor.
He also said that it has been roughly 20 years since Bacolod City last hosted Batang Pinoy.
Meanwhile, city councilor Jason Villarosa will serve as head of delegation with lawyer Mark Steven Mayo as assistant head of delegation for the Bacolod City team.
