• THERESA MAE DULMAN
Over 200 local government units (LGU) across the country have confirmed their participation in the 2026 Batang Pinoy National Championships, to be hosted by Bacolod City, from Dec. 12-18.
Bacolod City administrator, Atty. Mark Steven Mayo, said Oct. 8 that official registration data from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) show that LGU participation has already hit the 200-mark and continue to grow, up from the city’s initial expectation of around 180 LGUs.
Mayo said the city government is streamlining accommodation logistics to ensure the legitimate, safe stays of all delegates, and prevent booking scams.
Accommodation providers, including Airbnb hosts, short-term rental operators, vacation homes, apartments, condominiums, and homestays, are required to apply for a special permit for temporary accommodation, the city said.
“We will turn over the database of registered establishments to the Philippine Sports Commission so they will know the LGU’s official list of legitimate establishments, because there are really those who try to take advantage,” Mayo said.
The Batang Pinoy hosting is part of a major dual-event opening on Dec. 12, when Bacolod City will simultaneously kick off the national championships and the 52nd Metro Manila Film Festival, following agreements with the PSC and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.
Mayor Greg Gasataya noted that city officials and industry stakeholders have been working continuously for months to coordinate logistics and venue preparations. | TMD
