The bid of this highly urbanized city to become a sports tourism destination is gaining momentum with the opening of facilities that will serve as venues for upcoming major sports events.

On Wednesday afternoon, Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya and Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson led the unveiling of the Skyhall, a multi-event venue at SM City Bacolod.

“By leveling up our sports facilities, we, in Bacolod City, are also leveling up sports tourism because we believe this is one sure way of attracting everyone to come to Bacolod City,” Gasataya said in his speech during the event.

On Oct. 4, the city government also inaugurated the PHP241-million national government-funded skate park and multi-purpose center with a basketball court in Barangay Vista Alegre.

“We already made a bid to host Batang Pinoy 2026. The outcome will be announced by Oct. 30. I already talked to the chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission (John Patrick Gregorio),” Gasataya said.

He noted that the city government also signified interest in hosting the Philippine Sports Expo next year.

In 2026, Bacolod City will host the Private Schools Athletic Association National Games from May 18 to 25.

Meanwhile, the SM Skyhall, located on the sixth floor of the North Block, is primarily designed for sports but also accommodates a variety of activities, including concerts, conventions, graduations, trade shows, and social events.

The 1,000-seater facility features a FIBA International Basketball Federation and FIVB International Volleyball Federation standard wooden court, as well as fixed and flexible seating, dugout facilities, restrooms, and a spacious lobby.

“Skyhall is about access and choice. We wanted a venue that feels close to daily life and is practical to configure for different event goals,” Michelle Leslie Llanos, vice president for SM Supermalls-Visayas, said. (PNA)