Student athletes from Bacolod City are expressing gratitude for the local government’s support as they gear up for the first-ever Negros Island Region Athletic Association Meet(NIRAAM). A parade is set for March 1 at 3 p.m., followed by the opening ceremony at 4 p.m. The city government has allocated a total of P54.5 million for the event – P24 million as financial support to the Department of Education, and P30.5 million for the city’s delegation. The athletes have been provided with essential gear, including training, competition, and parade uniforms, as well as shoes and hoodies. On February 25, delegates will receive a cash allowance of P10,500 each, with coaches also getting allowances during a ceremonial send-off. “Nine hundred two delegates will gather at Bacolod City National High School, and each athlete will receive their allowances, approximately 10,500 pesos,” said Atty. Marty Go, Secretary to the Mayor. Adriana J. Arca, Coach of Secondary Girls Athletics, expressed her gratitude, saying, “This support will definitely boost the morale of the young athletes. They can see the support through their uniforms, and it brings them joy to receive such recognition.” Athletes Hennesy Claude Lubrico of La Salle, Aaron Jan Pahilagaop of BCNHS, and Eiah Andrea Robles of Tay Tung also shared their appreciation for the chance to compete with full city backing. They believe the support will inspire them to strive for championship titles. Mayor Greg Gasataya said the city has allocated all necessary budget for the historic event, covering venue rentals and other operational needs in addition to the financial assistance to DepEd and delegation funds. He added that a committee has been formed to manage all aspects of the meet, including peace and order, security, billeting, and transportation. “We are appealing to the public and business owners, from the transport sector, restaurants, hotels, and other businesses to extend help and hospitality to all the visitors who will be joining us for the NIRAAM 2026.” Twelve delegations will be joining the NIRAAM which include Kabankalan, Canlaon, Bayawan, Tanjay, Bais, Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, Guihulngan, Bacolod, Silay and the province of Negros Occidental. NIRAAM will run from March 1 to 7, 2026, featuring the following events: SPORTS EVENTS •Archery •Arnis •Athletics •Badminton •Baseball •Basketball (3X3/5X5) •Billiards •Boxing •Chess •Dancesport •Football •Futsal •Gymnastics •Goal Ball •Bocce •Para-Athletics •Para-Swimming •Pencak Silat •Pickleball •Sepak Takraw •Softball •Swimming •Table Tennis •Taekwondo •Tennis •Volleyball •Weightlifting •Wrestling •Wushu •Cheerdance (Bacolod City Communications Office)