The Bacolod City Government has officially approved a substantial investment of P50 million for the construction of a state-of-the-art football pitch. This new facility, spanning an impressive 7,490 square meters, will be situated at the Bacolod City National High School (BCNHS) oval in Barangay Taculing, marking a significant milestone for the city's sports infrastructure.
Project Details and Timeline
Mayor Greg Gasataya has announced that the city is currently in the final stages of planning, with a groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for the first or second week of March this year. The mayor emphasized that this project is designed to meet FIFA standards, featuring high-quality artificial turf and professional-grade lighting systems. Once completed, it will stand as Bacolod's first-ever city-constructed football venue, providing a modern and accessible space for athletes and enthusiasts alike.
Boosting Grassroots Sports Development
Mayor Gasataya highlighted the primary goal of the initiative: to enhance grassroots sports development and offer local teams a dedicated training facility within the city limits. He noted that many teams currently travel outside Bacolod for practice and competitions, which can be both costly and inconvenient. "We know there are a lot of teams in Bacolod and some of them are playing outside the city, so by having this quality turf it can help the athletes and can attract more competitions here in the city," Gasataya explained. This new pitch is expected to not only improve training conditions but also position Bacolod as a potential host for regional and national football events.
Funding and Construction Progress
City Engineer Loben Rafael Ceballos provided updates on the project's financial and logistical aspects. He confirmed that the P50 million allocation will be sourced from the Special Education Fund (SEF), ensuring dedicated resources for this educational and recreational enhancement. The Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) has already completed a post-qualification evaluation of the bidder, and the city is now awaiting the release of the Notice to Proceed (NTP). "As soon as we receive the NTP, we will start construction of the football pitch. The exact timeline depends on its issuance," Ceballos stated. Additionally, the project includes improvements to the overall BCNHS oval area, further benefiting the school and community.
This initiative reflects Bacolod City's commitment to fostering youth development and promoting active lifestyles through improved sports facilities. By investing in such infrastructure, the city aims to nurture local talent, reduce the need for teams to seek training grounds elsewhere, and ultimately elevate Bacolod's profile in the sporting arena.
