Unigames returns to Bacolod after 10-year break

By Glazyl M. Jopson

The Philippine University Games (Unigames) made its long-awaited return to Bacolod City for its 26th season after a decade, with the provincial government of Negros Occidental as host and the city government as co-host.

Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson welcomed more than 1,500 athletes and coaches from 41 colleges and universities during the opening ceremony held Thursday at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon.

In his message, Lacson honored the visionaries who launched the Unigames in 1996, calling it a platform that nurtures athletic talent, character, and national unity through sports.

“To host the 26th season of Unigames is to open our doors to the nation’s young athletes—symbols of dedication and drive—reminding us that sports is not just about winning but about character-building, forging unity, and celebrating the Filipino spirit,” Lacson said.

He added that the Unigames has grown into a movement defined by discipline, integrity, teamwork, and excellence—core values essential to both athletics and nation-building.

“Sports have always held a special place in the hearts of Filipinos,” he continued. “It serves as a powerful unifying force that transcends language, region, and belief, reminding us that behind every contest lies a pursuit of friendship, respect, and shared pride in being Filipino.”

Lacson also reaffirmed the province’s support for initiatives like the Unigames that advance youth development, health, and unity.

“May the 26th season of Unigames become a memorable celebration of passion, perseverance, and camaraderie,” he said. “May this year’s game inspire you to give your best, to compete with honor, and carry forward the spirit of fair play and mutual respect that define true athleticism.”

Mayor Greg Gasataya, through a message delivered by City Administrator Mark Mayo, said Bacolod’s hosting of the Unigames marks a significant step toward becoming a center for sports development in the region.

“Bacolod proudly welcomes the Unigames 2025 and all who have come to celebrate this spirit of perseverance,” the mayor said.

He noted that sports speak a universal language that turns effort into dreams and competition into camaraderie.

“True victory lies not only in winning but in the journey that shapes us,” Gasataya said.

The mayor highlighted the city’s recent launch of the country’s largest covered skatepark, a new multi-purpose sports center, and the upcoming Bacolod City Coliseum as part of its long-term athletic vision.

“This gathering stands for resilience, commitment, and the will to keep moving forward,” he added. “When sports thrive, our youth grows stronger in discipline and opportunity.”

Negrense volleyball star and Alas Pilipinas standout Angel Canino led the athletes’ oath of sportsmanship, while badminton tournament manager Jay Biñas led the oath for officials and coaches.

Unigames Board chairman Br. Felipe Belleza formally declared the games open.

The opening day concluded with a Governor’s Night, featuring a welcome dinner and fellowship for delegation heads.

Competitions begin Friday in athletics, badminton, basketball (women’s 3×3 and men’s 5×5), football, futsal, table tennis, taekwondo, volleyball, and beach volleyball.

Most events will be held in Bacolod City, while women’s volleyball and futsal matches will take place at the Natalio G. Velez Arts and Sports Center in Silay City and Carlos Hilado Memorial State University, respectively.