May 26, 2024- With the support of Mayor Albee Benitez, the City of Bacolod and the Province of Negros Occidental headed by Governor Bong Lacson, the Philippine ROTC Games Visayas Qualifying Leg officially opened at the Panaad Park and Stadium. The ceremony featured a torch relay and the lighting of the cauldron, marking the start of the event.

Senator Francis Tolentino led the ceremony, accompanied by Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran, Undersecretary Pablo Lorenzo of the Department of National Defense, Dr. Norberto Mangulabnan, President of Carlos Hilado Memorial State College, Atty. Cinderella Filipina Benitez-Jaro of the Commission on Higher Education and Ms. Olivia “Bong” Coo of the Philippine Sports Commission. High-ranking officials from the Philippine Air Force, Philippine Army, Philippine Navy, Provincial Government of Negros Occidental, City Government of Bacolod, and Carlos Hilado Memorial State University were also in attendance.

A total of 1,938 athletes from various areas in the Visayas will compete in the 14 sports disciplines.

The event was further highlighted by a ceremonial confetti drop from a Blackhawk helicopter of the Philippine Air Force, officially signaling the start of the Philippine ROTC Games.
(Source: Bacolod City Public Information Office)