AT LEAST 75 basketball teams from international and local are expected to join the World Youth Championship, which will be held in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental on December 13 to 16, 2025.
Nathaniel Salanga, a Bacoleño and founder of World Youth Championship, said this will be a 5v5 Youth Basketball, which is composed of 45 teams from international and 30 teams from local. The teams will compete in different categories Under 10, Under 12, Under 14, Under 16, and Under 18, all boys.
He said the World Youth Championship started in 2024 in Singapore.
“So this year, it will be held in Bacolod City. We want to bring together youth basketball teams from across the world in a friendly and competitive environment that promotes sportsmanship, cultural exchange, and grassroots development in the city to uplift provincial youth and promote regional sports tourism,” he added.
Salanga noted that the tournament will help the youth to have an international exposure to gain valuable experience by playing against top teams from Asia and beyond, improving their skills and confidence.
Salanga said this will also serve as platform for scouts and coaches to identify promising young players, and they will also meet peers from other cultures and build friendships that go beyond borders.
“Competing in a global event boosts the players’ resumes and motivates them to pursue greater goals,” he said.
Salanga said the event promotes discipline, teamwork, and leadership among youth, all critical life skills.
He said the youth in Bacolod will be inspired to aim higher by witnessing and participating in a world-class event.
“Without leaving home, young players will engage with international talent and elevate their game,” he added.
Salanga said they chose Bacolod City to host the tournament because hosting an international sports event proves that the city is ready for the global stage.
“It breaks the norm of hosting major events only in capital cities and highlights the potential of the provinces. It positions Bacolod on the international map, bringing pride to local communities,” he said.
He added it will also improve the sports tourism in the city since the players will also bring their families as well as officials, and supporters.
“Bacolod will gain recognition as a premier host city for international sports and youth events. Success in this event will lead to interest in future regional or international tournaments in Bacolod,” Salanga said.
Aside from Bacolod City, Salanga said they are also eyeing to use the facilities in the neighboring cities in Negros Occidental.
“This gives provincial youth the same opportunities usually only available in urban centers. The event may open doors for scholarships, training camps, and even national team recruitment,” he said.
He said the World Youth Championship in Bacolod City will not only elevate basketball development in the region but also empower the next generation of athletes.
“It is a historic opportunity to build pride, community spirit, and international bridges, right here in the heart of the province,” Salanga said.
Salanga, who is now based in Singapore and a former National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) player (University of Perpetual), is a younger brother of Bacolod City Councilor Israel Salanga. He is also the founder of Heart of Basketball, Super league-Singapore, and Asian Basketball Club Tournament. (MAP)