Bacolod City is gearing up to host what is expected to be the biggest edition of the Batang Pinoy National Championships in history, with 35,894 registered participants set to converge in the City of Smiles for the weeklong youth sports spectacle on December 12-18.
The Philippine Sports Commission and Bacolod City officials recently held a coordination meeting to finalize preparations for the event, which will bring together 27,763 athletes, 6,144 coaches, and 1,987 officials from more than 200 local government units nationwide. The participants will compete in 30 sports disciplines.
The projected turnout underscores the growing popularity of the PSC’s Batang Pinoy program, the country’s premier grassroots sports competition for athletes aged eight to 15, and positions Bacolod as the center of Philippine youth sports for a week.
PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio highlighted Batang Pinoy’s role in the country’s sports development pathway, emphasizing how the competition allows young athletes to experience national-level competition and discover their potential at an early age.
“Sa Batang Pinoy nagsisimula mangarap ang kabataan. Sa Batang Pinoy, nakasuporta ang mga magulang. Iyan ang hangarin at diwa na gusto ng Philippine Sports Commission,” said Gregorio.
“These championships help identify future members of our national teams and provide a pathway for young Filipinos to pursue excellence in sports,” he added.
Preparations are already underway, with the PSC workforce and the Bacolod City Government discussing logistical requirements during their coordination meeting. To accommodate the thousands of participants, the city has prepared 43 schools with a combined capacity of 30,996 bed spaces for billeting and accommodation.
Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya underscored the significance of hosting the national youth competition, noting its potential to inspire young athletes and benefit the broader community.
“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,” he added.
Security is also a priority, with the Philippine National Police assuring organizers that comprehensive measures are in place to protect athletes, coaches, officials, and visitors throughout the Games.
Panaad Stadium will serve as the main hub of competitions, while President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will be invited to attend the opening ceremony. The event’s opening date also coincides with the opening of the 52nd Metro Manila Film Festival, adding to the festive atmosphere surrounding one of the country’s biggest annual sporting events.
Taekwondo leads the list of sports in terms of registered participants with 3,327 athletes, followed by aquatics with 3,042, futsal with 2,009, athletics with 1,803, chess with 1,582, arnis with 1,435, and badminton with 1,300.
Beyond sports development, Gregorio also highlighted the economic and tourism benefits of hosting an event of such magnitude.
“Sports tourism will be one of the biggest winners in Bacolod. For every young athlete who comes here, there is often a parent, guardian, or family companion traveling with them,” said Gregorio, who also chairs the National Sports Tourism-Inter Agency Committee.
“That means the number of visitors can easily double, creating opportunities for local hotels, restaurants, transportation providers, and small businesses while showcasing Bacolod to thousands of families from all over the country,” he added.
With nearly 36,000 registered participants expected to arrive in the city, local officials anticipate a significant boost to Bacolod’s tourism and hospitality sectors.
“This is also a chance for Bacolod to shine on the national stage. We welcome this opportunity to showcase our rich culture, warm hospitality, and vibrant community while hosting one of the biggest youth sporting events in the country,” said Gasataya.
Leading the city’s preparations are Bacolod City Councilor Jason Villarosa, who has been designated as head of the city’s delegation, and City Administrator Atty. Mark Steven Mayo. PSC Commissioner Olivia “Bong” Coo, meanwhile, will serve as project director of the Games.
Batang Pinoy’s return to Bacolod also carries historical significance, as the city previously hosted the national youth games decades ago. Its selection once again reflects confidence in Bacolod’s ability to stage major sporting events.
“Batang Pinoy is where many young athletes get their first taste of national competition. At ages eight to 15, they learn discipline, sportsmanship, confidence, and the value of hard work while representing their communities,” said Gregorio.
Established to strengthen grassroots sports development and provide equal opportunities for young athletes nationwide, Batang Pinoy has become one of the Philippines’ most important talent-identification platforms.
