BACOLOD CITY – The city government is constructing its first athletes’ dormitory here in recognition of their achievements in various sports competitions.
CITY officials headed by Mayor Albee Benitez lead the groundbreaking of the P12.5-million athletes’ dormitory at Romanito Maravilla National High School in Barangay Estefania, Bacolod City on Tuesday, August 20. (Glazyl Masculino)
City officials headed by Mayor Albee Benitez, along with barangay captain Jerry Tingson, the athletes, and faculty, led the groundbreaking of the P12.5-million facility at Romanito Maravilla National High School in Barangay Estefania here on Tuesday, August 20.
Benitez said the budget for the construction and improvement of the dormitory was sourced from the Special Education Fund (SEF).
“To finish in six months, this project is our way of giving back to our athletes who have brought recognition to our city through their achievements in track and field,” the mayor said.
Athletes have been occupying a shanty type structure at the back of the school made of light materials for years.
Benitez said that some athletes have been winning gold and silver medals in various sports competitions and they are very proud of them because they do very well in every local and international competition.
“It is just and fitting to give them a decent living quarters for them to look forward to after their trainings and competitions,” Benitez said, adding that this can also help their athletic development because of comfortable and better living conditions.
Benitez emphasized the importance of proper education to athletes. “They should not neglect their academic lessons because that is part of being good athletes,” he said.
He also said that being extraordinary athletes, they must have mental training.
Benitez said the building can accommodate at least 30 athletes. But if it is not enough, he said they will construct more.
Mico Villaran, one of the most bemedalled tracksters in this year’s Palarong Pambansa in Cebu City, said that they are excited having a new dormitory. “We are happy and thankful to the city government, especially to Mayor Albee,” he added.
The 16-year-old Villaran from Talisay City, Negros Occidental said the old dormitory was built 20 years ago and has been staying there since 2019.
Rev. Fr. Amat Sagar Tirkey led the blessing of the land and the project.
Romanito Maravilla Sr. National High School, known as the "Home of Champions," is recognized for having the most successful athletes here.