Education Undersecretary Peter Irving C. Corvera urged 5,462 athletes to play for regional pride during the historic opening of the first Negros Island Regional Athletic Association Meet (NIRAAM) in Bacolod City on Sunday. March 1.
Speaking at the Panaad Park and Stadium, Corvera told the competitors that while they should “give the games their all,” the ultimate goal is representing the identity of the newly unified region.
The opening of the NIRAAM, hosted by Bacolod City led by Mayor Greg Gasataya, was attended by the governors of the three NIR provinces: Eugenio Jose Lacson of Negros Occidental, Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria of Negros Oriental, and Jake Vincent Villa of Siquijor.
Contingents from 12 schools divisions — Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, Bacolod City, Silay City, Kabankalan City, Dumaguete City, Canlaon City, Bais City, Bayawan City, Guihulngan City, and Tanjay City — are participating in the games.
There are 10,745 delegates composed of 5,462 athletes, 1,255 coaches and 4,003 support committee members.
“The goal is bigger than medals, you carry the pride of the Negros Island Region,” Corvera told the athletes.
The athletes at the historic gathering have come together not just to compete, but to prove what this region is made of, he said.
He noted that for those participating in the games, the NIRAAM serves as their gateway to the Palarong Pambansa, to be held in Agusan del Sur in May.
“So give it your all—fight harder, jump higher, and stand taller,” Corvera said.
“Negros Island Region, this is your moment. Make the country remember your strength, make them respect your discipline, and make them feel your hearts,” he said.
Corvera also said the Department of Education is strengthening schools’ sports programs because it is not just about medals; “sports teaches our young people discipline, teamwork, and resilience.”
“This is your time — make the most of NIRAAM 2026. We believe the next Olympian will come from the Negros Island Region, especially Bacolod City,” Gasataya said.
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson reminded athletes that the meet serves as a crucial opportunity to prove themselves and earn a spot to represent the region in the Palarong Pambansa.
“We will only send the best athletes from the Negros Island Region to the Palarong Pambansa,” he said.
Lacson also expressed his confidence that the NIR will excel in its maiden appearance at the national games.
Spectators and the NIRAAM participants were treated to performances from the iconic MassKara dancers, as well as field demonstrations by the Handumanan National High School and Domingo Lacson National High School.
The celebration was capped by a fireworks display that lit up the Bacolod night sky.
The week-long regional sports competition features 27 sporting events and runs until March 7.*
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