The Legazpi city government has allocated PHP10 million for the establishment of a sports academy to enhance training facilities for athletes.

In an interview on Thursday, Mayor Alfredo Garbin said the budget will be used to construct a multipurpose building to house sports equipment and serve as a training facility.

“The Sports Academy has a budget of PHP10 million. Our first step is to build the structure and facility, and from there, we will proceed. In the world of sports, to be the best, you need to provide the best for your athletes,” Garbin said.

He added the importance of having training facilities available year-round, not just during competitions.

“For athletes to train effectively year-round, they need accessible facilities whenever they want to practice. This, in turn, supports our local government by ensuring that sports equipment is also readily available,” Garbin added.

The mayor assured that the city government will continue to support the aspirations of athletes, acknowledging the pride they bring to the city.

“The planned multipurpose building will serve as a central hub for training facilities, mentorship programs, and sports equipment. It will also accommodate some equipment that was purchased by the city government,” he said.

Garbin praised the athletes for their performance in the recently concluded Palarong Bicol 2025, noting that Legazpi City improved from 35 gold medals and a 6th place ranking in 2024 to 48 gold medals and a 5th place ranking in 2025.

“Congratulations to them! I admire their perseverance and determination. The City Government is committed to supporting their aspirations and ensuring that the pride they bring to our city is recognized and appreciated,” Garbin added.

In a separate interview, DepEd-5 Director Gilbert Sadsad said the desire for each division to have a sports academy is for proper training for Palarong Bicol athletes.

He noted that the sports academy in Masbate province has led to improved performance in sports activities, resulting in various gold medals in events they handled. (PNA)