Naga as Bicol’s sports reg'l training center through PSC partnership

By Franshen Rochelle A. Estrella

Naga City is one step closer to becoming a regional training center as the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) conducted an ocular inspection and evaluation at the Metro Naga Sports Complex, marking another milestone in the city’s commitment to advancing grassroots sports development and expanding opportunities for young athletes.

Representatives from PSC’s Planning Division, and Engineering and Maintenance Division, including Ms. Gloria Quintos, Ms. Iris Hazel Anne Lacorte-Lacsa, Engr. Eduardo Clariza, Engr. Lady Jean Nolasco-Bujawe, and Ar. Reb Igan Viduya, visited the sports complex in Baraangay Pacol to assess its existing facilities and identify the necessary improvements needed to meet the standards for accreditation as a Regional Training Center.

According to LGU Naga’s Sports Coordinator Francis Barja, the visit is part of the commitment made by PSC Chairperson Patrick Gregorio during the launch of the Laro’t Saya Sa Parke program in Naga last June 17. As part of this partnership, Naga City secured a ₱30-million grant from the PSC for the installation of an artificial turf football field.

Barja added that the partnership between the PSC and LGU Naga gained momentum during the recent Palarong Pambansa in Agusan, where the commission recognized the city’s sports development initiatives and its consistent production of champion athletes. The collaboration was further strengthened through the successful hosting of the Bicol Sports and Youth Summit in the city, reflecting the shared commitment of both institutions to nurture the next generation of athletes

Once established, the Regional Training Center will provide aspiring athletes from Naga and neighboring provinces with greater access to quality sports training, professional coaching, and structured athlete development programs. The initiative is expected to strengthen grassroots sports while creating more opportunities for young talents to excel in football and other sporting disciplines.

The partnership between the PSC and LGU Naga reflects their shared advocacy of making sports more accessible to young people while promoting health, wellness, and youth empowerment. Aligned with the city's 8 Finish Lines: Vision 4 – Healthy and Educated Nagueños with Decent Homes, Naga continues to encourage active lifestyles and investing in programs that develop both athletic excellence and community well-being.