Bacolod city: Negros Island Region (NIR) aims to finish among the top five in the 2026 National Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) Games which kicks off here Sunday. Last year in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, NIR ranked sixth in the senior division and fifth in the youth division.
According to Philippines News Agency, PRISAA-NIR president Ryan Mark Molina expressed confidence during a press conference at the San Sebastian Cathedral function hall on Saturday. "We hope that our collegiate level will also be in the top five this year. We believe in the capability of our athletes to give their best," he stated. The press conference was also attended by PRISAA National executive director Elbert Atilano Jr. and PRISAA-NIR executive director Jake Lauren Mercado.
The PRISAA-NIR was formed in 2023 with the goal of fostering sports development, camaraderie, and academic excellence among private institutions in Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor. Twelve schools participated in the inaugural PRISAA-NIR meet in 2024, including Colegio de Sta. de Victorias, Colegio San Agustin-Bacolod, John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation, La Consolation College, and others.
This year, athletes from 17 regions are competing in 22 sports, alongside three cultural events-Vocal Solo and Duet, PRISAAYAWAN dance contest, and Mutya ng PRISAA beauty pageant-and two academic contests-Oration and Brain Masters. All sports events, except for boxing and football, will be held at various venues in Bacolod City, with boxing taking place in Bago City and football in Talisay City.
The PRISAA has partnered with Bacolod City, the provincial government of Negros Occidental, the Commission on Higher Education, the Department of Education, and the Philippine Sports Commission to ensure the smooth conduct of the Games. Law enforcers, health workers, and local officials are stationed at every venue to support the delegates.
Last year, Soccsksargen (Region 12) topped the senior division with 128 gold, 104 silver, and 55 bronze medals, while Western Visayas (Region 6) dominated the youth division with 99 gold, 71 silver, and 73 bronze medals.
