NIRAAM: History, Divisions, and Sports Events

The Negros Island Regional Athletics Association Meet (NIRAAM) is a premier student-sports competition. It brings together the top young athletes across the newly unified Negros Island Region (NIR). It is a vital stepping stone for students aiming to compete on national stages like the Palarong Pambansa.

NIRAAM History and Re-establishment

The Department of Education organized the 2026 Meet as a pivotal moment in the region’s sports history. It marked the first unified regional meet since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the “NIR Act” in June 2024. This act officially re-established the Negros Island Region.

Before the region was dissolved, the last unified Meet took place in Dumaguete City back in 2017. The 2026 return hosted by Bacolod City signaled a joyous revival of regional solidarity. The event drew over 10,000 delegates including athletes, coaches, and support staff.

School Divisions in NIRAAM

The Meet features fierce but friendly competition among contingents from across the island. The recent 2026 structure saw participation from 12 distinct school divisions:

  • Bacolod City
  • Bais City
  • Bayawan City
  • Canlaon City
  • Dumaguete City
  • Guihulngan City
  • Kabankalan City
  • Negros Occidental
  • Negros Oriental
  • Siquijor
  • Silay City
  • Tanjay City

Notably, Bacolod City competed as a separate, independent delegation for the first time in 2026. Previously, they competed under the broader Negros Occidental umbrella.

Featured NIRAAM Sports Events

The competition boasts an expansive lineup of 27 distinct sporting events. Organizers break these down into elementary level, secondary level, and Para Games categories to ensure inclusive participation. Key events feature:

  • Ball Games: Basketball (3×3 and 5×5), Volleyball, Baseball, Softball, and Football.
  • Racket Sports: Badminton, Table Tennis, and Tennis.
  • Combat and Martial Arts: Taekwondo, Boxing, Arnis, Pencak Silat, and Wushu.
  • Target and Precision: Archery and Billiards.
  • Demonstration Sports: Exciting new additions frequently appear, such as Pickleball and Cheerdance.
  • Para Games: Inclusive events including Para Athletics, Paraswimming, Bocce, and Goal Ball.

The revival of the Negros Island Regional Athletics Association Meet represents not just a sporting event, but a celebration of regional unity and youth development. For more information on local events, explore our recent features on local news and community updates.

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