Bacolod is gearing up for another major national sporting event – the Philippine Sports Expo (PSE) – with discussions ongoing to bring this competition to the City of Smiles in April.
Mayor Greg Gasataya has expressed strong interest to host the first-of-its-kind sports expo in Bacolod as it continues to position itself as the sports capital of the region.
PSE event director Rachelle Villarosa said Bacolod stands out as one of the Philippines’ most competitive host cities due to its unique blend of accessibility, infrastructure readiness, and strong sports culture.
“Hosting the PSE is projected to deliver a strong tourism and economic boost across accommodation, food services, transport, expo suppliers, and local micro-enterprises,” Villarosa said in a city press release.
He expressed confidence that the event will generate significant income, with more than 15,000 expected participants and visitors.
Designed as a platform for the discovery, development, and exposure of young athletes, the sports expo will serve as a launchpad for the next generation of Negrense and Bacolodnon athletes, helping build a stronger foundation for regional sports excellence.
“Over the next three years, the region is expected to experience strengthened sports tourism, growth of local sports businesses, and better opportunities for local athletes,” Villarosa added.
The event is expected to draw close to 7,500 young athletes from across the country, who will compete in more than 17 sports disciplines, including basketball, volleyball, pickleball, football, taekwondo, table tennis, archery, boxing, arnis, marathon, motorsports, swimming, billiards, weightlifting, e-sports, wrestling, and more.
One of the highlights will be the skateboarding competition, set to be held in what is touted as the biggest covered skate park and multi-purpose center with a basketball court in Barangay Vista Alegre.
Earlier, Philippine Sports Commission chairman John Patrick Gregorio also officially announced Bacolod as the host city for next year’s Batang Pinoy National Youth Games. The city will likewise host the Private Schools Athletic Association National Games from May 18 to 25. ||
