Panaad’s Place in Philippine Sports
Panaad Stadium, located in Bacolod City, has played a major role in Philippine sports. Over the years, it has helped many athletes grow from local talents to national stars.
The stadium is more than just a venue. It has become a real training ground for future champions in the Philippines.
Football Took Center Stage
Panaad has a deep connection to football. It became the home of Ceres Negros FC, one of the country’s top football clubs.
Why it matters for football:
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Hosted Panaad Stadium football matches for leagues and school tournaments
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Held major Ceres Negros FC games in front of passionate local crowds
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Supported youth programs like those from NOFA (Negros Occidental Football Association)
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Became a key venue for the Philippine Football League
Because of these efforts, more young players got a chance to shine — even outside of Metro Manila.
A Daily Space for Training
Besides matches, the stadium is used all year round for training. Athletes from Bacolod and nearby towns train here every week.
Training opportunities at Panaad:
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A standard 8-lane oval for track and field practice
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A FIFA-approved pitch for football drills
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Open areas used by school teams and fitness groups
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Regular access for public sports activities
As a result, the stadium helps athletes develop skills in a safe and professional setting.
Events That Build Experience
Panaad isn’t just for training — it’s also where future stars gain experience in real competitions.
Common events hosted at the stadium:
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Local and regional qualifiers for Palarong Pambansa
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Inter-city football tournaments and school sports fests
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Friendly matches that attract scouts and coaches
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Invitational games across Bacolod and Western Visayas
These events give athletes a stage to perform and improve. At the same time, they inspire others to follow their path.
Boosting Bacolod’s Sports Identity
Thanks to Panaad, Bacolod sports culture has grown stronger. Local fans regularly attend games. Youth programs continue to expand.
How it impacts the city:
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Local pride grows with each match or medal
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New training programs and community leagues keep rising
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More young people stay active and focused through sports
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Government and private groups now invest more in athletes
Because of this, Bacolod is now seen as a strong sports city in the Philippines.
“This vision lives on through youth sports programs.”
More Than Sports Alone
While known for games and training, Panaad also hosts large events beyond athletics. These moments bring the community together.
Examples of non-sports events:
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The annual Panaad sa Negros Festival, which includes food, music, and parades
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Concerts with both local and national artists
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Public programs like health clinics and disaster drives
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City-wide gatherings such as graduation ceremonies and rallies
So, even when there are no matches, Panaad continues to serve the people of Negros Occidental.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is Panaad Stadium important to Filipino athletes?
It provides a safe, well-equipped space to train, play, and grow — especially for athletes outside Metro Manila.
What sports are played or trained at Panaad?
Football, track and field, martial arts, and school-level events are most common.
Is Panaad still used by pro teams?
Yes. It has hosted teams like Ceres Negros FC, and is still used for local league games and exhibitions.
Can local teams use the stadium?
Yes, with coordination through the Negros Occidental Sports Office or Bacolod City Hall.
Where is Panaad located in the Philippines?
In Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City, inside the Panaad Park and Sports Complex.
Why Panaad’s Role Still Matters
Panaad Stadium proves that big dreams don’t have to start in big cities. It has become a launchpad — where local players become national athletes, and where the next generation finds their calling.
Even now, it continues to train, host, and inspire the future of sports in the Philippines.