This highly urbanized city has distributed PHP1.78 million in total cash incentives to athletes, coaches, trainers, and chaperones from Bacolod who saw action in the Palarong Pambansa 2026 in Agusan del Sur last month.

Mayor Greg Gasataya led the awarding of incentives in a ceremony held at the Bacolod City Government Center main lobby on Thursday, coinciding with the city’s 88th Charter Day celebration.

“We are giving honor and recognition to their sacrifices in representing and giving pride to the City of Bacolod. We know that no amount of money can compare to your sacrifices for our beloved city, but may this be a symbol of Bacolod’s belief and support in your abilities,” he said.

Gasataya also reaffirmed the city’s support for its athletes in the hope that the country’s next Olympian will come from Bacolod.

The 284-strong Bacolod delegation, part of the contingent from the Negros Island Region, brought home 12 gold, 11 silver, and 18 bronze medals.

For the athletes and their coaches, each of them gets PHP18,000 for every gold medal, PHP15,000 for a silver medal, and PHP10,000 for a bronze medal.

The assistant coaches get PHP15,000 for a gold medal, PHP12,000 for a silver medal, and PHP8,000 for a bronze medal.

The trainers and the chaperones receive PHP10,000 for a gold medal, PHP8,000 for a silver medal, and PHP5,000 for a bronze medal.

All the other delegates are given PHP1,000 each as allowance.

Elementary swimmer Sofia Ysabela Secuelan of St. John’s Institute, the city’s top medalist with three golds, received a total cash incentive of PHP54,000.

As part of the preparations for the Palarong Pambansa 2026, the city government provided PHP17.4 million in financial assistance to the Department of Education Bacolod City Schools Division.

The financial assistance covered the delegation’s allowance for transportation, accommodation, and uniforms, as well as for the games, food, and training. (PNA)