Mayor Benitez inaugurates athletes dorm, affirms support for sports

Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez affirmed his support to city athletes at the Marianito Maravilla National High School during the inauguration of the school’s Athletes Dormitory.

In his speech at the newly constructed P12.5 million facility, he said the athletes are heroes deserving the support of the city in a program attended by city officials, department heads, Deped officials, teachers, athletes and students.

“Continue the hard work, do not think that there will be no support coming from the city government and all of us. We are proud of you,” Benitez said during Monday’s inauguration.

The dormitory features two separate bedrooms that can accommodate 32 athletes—16 boys and 16 girls—each with individual beds and cabinets, an earlier press release from the Bacolod City PIO said

Amenities include dining and cooking area, dedicated comfort rooms, an office, and a stock room, it added.

School principal Gladys Gerona said the dormitory is not just a place to rest but also a facility that will foster focus, growth, and a sense of community among players

“Here, athletes will find the comfort and support they need to excel, both on and off the field,” she said.

Palarong Pambansang 110 meter hurdle record holder-secondary category, Mico Villaran who is also the team captain thanked Mayor Benitez who pushed for the construction of the dorm.

He noted that after a hard day training, athletes have a place where they can sleep, rest, hold meeting, cook and eat.

He also thanked the support of their teachers that sustained the sports program for many years now.* (Lorenzo Lambatin with reports from NDB)