Bacolod Takes the Lead in Historic NIRAAM 2026

 Bacolod City is stepping confidently into the spotlight as it hosts the first-ever Negros Island Region Athletic Association Meet (NIRAAM) from March 1 to 7, 2026 — a landmark event that brings together more than 15,000 student-athletes from across the newly organized Negros Island Region (NIR).

This year’s NIRAAM is particularly significant as it is the first regional athletic meet organized by the Department of Education (DepEd) since the administrative restoration of the Negros Island Region. Twelve delegations are competing in the weeklong tournament: Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, Dumaguete City, Kabankalan City, Bayawan City, Bais City, Tanjay City, Canlaon City, Guihulngan City, and Silay City. Carrying the theme “Negros Island Region: Stronger, Faster, Together,” the event celebrates unity, resilience, and excellence in sports.

The opening ceremony will be held at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan on March 1 at 4 p.m. While Bacolod serves as the main host, several events will also take place in neighboring cities such as Silay, Talisay, Bago, and Victorias. In total, organizers have prepared 27 playing venues and 12 billeting schools, ensuring adequate facilities, water supply, sanitation, and security for all delegates. To maintain academic continuity, schools used as venues have temporarily shifted to modular learning.

Demonstrating strong institutional support, the Bacolod City Government allocated P54.5 million for the event. Of this, P24 million was given as financial assistance to DepEd, while P30.5 million supports the city’s 902-member delegation. Each athlete and coach received cash allowances, uniforms, shoes, and training gear — a move that underscores Mayor Greg Gasataya’s commitment to grassroots sports development.

Security has also been reinforced, with more than 500 police personnel deployed to ensure safety across venues and billeting areas.

Beyond medals and championship titles, NIRAAM 2026 serves as the regional qualifying meet for the Palarong Pambansa. More importantly, it symbolizes a new era of collaboration and athletic excellence for Negros Island — with Bacolod proudly leading the way.