Inaugural Negros Island Region Athletic Association Meet Draws Massive Participation in Bacolod
The inaugural Negros Island Region Athletic Association Meet (Niraam) 2026 has officially commenced in Bacolod City, marking a significant milestone for regional sports. According to Ramir Uytico, Director of the Department of Education-Negros Island Region (DepEd-NIR), the event has attracted a total of 8,648 athletes, coaches, and trainers from across the region. The week-long competition runs from March 1 to 7, 2026, showcasing athletic talent and fostering unity under the theme "Negros Island Region: stronger, faster, together."
Delegations and Participation Details
Uytico provided a detailed breakdown of the delegations, highlighting the diverse representation from various cities and provinces. The participating groups include:
- Negros Oriental: 989 delegates
- Negros Occidental: 850 delegates
- Siquijor: 663 delegates
- Bacolod City: 902 delegates
- Bais City: 421 delegates
- Bayawan City: 925 delegates
- Canlaon City: 600 delegates
- Dumaguete City: 850 delegates
- Guihulngan: 458 delegates
- Kabankalan City: 698 delegates
- Silay City: 792 delegates
- Tanjay City: 500 delegates
Of the total participants, 5,407 are athletes who will compete in various games across multiple venues in Bacolod City. Uytico emphasized that all preparations are complete, with the Local Government of Bacolod City serving as the host for this inaugural event.
Budget and Infrastructure Investments
To ensure a successful hosting, Bacolod City has allocated P30.5 million for Niraam 2026. This substantial budget covers essential expenses, including the construction and improvement of billeting areas for athletes in various schools. The funds have been formally turned over to the Schools Division of Bacolod City, underscoring the city's commitment to providing adequate facilities for the event.
In response to the hosting requirements, classes in affected schools have been transitioned from face-to-face instruction to a modular learning mode. This adjustment aims to minimize disruptions while accommodating the athletic meet's logistical needs.
Enhanced Security and Wellness Measures
Security for Niraam 2026 is a top priority, with the Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) deploying approximately 145 personnel to ensure safety. According to Lieutenant Colonel Joem Malong, PRO-NIR Public Information Office chief, the deployment includes 75 personnel from the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (Nocppo) and 25 from the Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB), all augmenting the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO).
These personnel will provide comprehensive security coverage throughout the event, focusing on playing venues, billeting areas, and other sites. Malong noted that the strategy involves a visible presence, strategic monitoring, and rapid response readiness. "PRO-NIR remains focused on its mission: to uphold public safety, maintain order, and provide support to all participants and attendees," she stated, highlighting the organization's dedication to stability and service.
Additionally, Uytico has directed the establishment of designated wellness spaces across billeting areas to safeguard athletes' well-being. He also stressed the importance of a fair, orderly, and smooth conduct of the games, issuing directives to tournament directors and technical officials.
Gratitude and Collaborative Efforts
Uytico expressed his gratitude to local officials and DepEd personnel for their efforts in organizing the inaugural Niraam. The event, as outlined in Regional Memorandum 35, Series of 2026, brings together 12 provincial and city delegations in a celebration of sportsmanship and regional pride.
With robust planning, significant funding, and coordinated security measures, the Negros Island Region Athletic Association Meet 2026 is poised to be a memorable and successful event, promoting athletic excellence and community spirit across the region.
