Discover the Best Features and Events at Panaad Football Field in Bacolod
Walking into Panaad Football Field during the weekend tournament felt like stepping into the heart of Negrense sports culture. The energy was palpable—cheering crowds, the smell of freshly cut grass, and that distinct buzz you only get when local athletes are giving their all. I’ve been to a fair number of stadiums around the Philippines, but there’s something special about this place. Maybe it’s the way the mountains cradle the field or how the community comes together here, rain or shine. This time, the vibe was even more electric, and it wasn’t just because of the perfect weather.
Just last week, Philippine teams made waves at the Manila Hustle 3x3 Season 3, and the momentum carried straight into Bacolod. I remember watching clips from that event—the agility, the last-second shots, the sheer grit. Teams like the Bacolod Ballers and Iloilo United showed flashes of brilliance, and fans were hungry for more. So when I heard they were bringing that fire to Panaad, I knew I had to be there. And let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint. The players seemed to feed off that recent success, turning the field into a stage for some truly jaw-dropping plays.
As I settled into the stands, I couldn’t help but reflect on why this venue stands out. If you want to discover the best features and events at Panaad Football Field in Bacolod, you’ve got to look beyond the pitch itself. The stadium seats around 8,500 people—though it felt like double that during the finals—and the turf is consistently well-maintained, even during the rainy season. But what really sets it apart are the little things: the local food stalls serving piping-hot piaya, the shaded areas that offer respite from the midday sun, and the way the sound echoes when a goal is scored. It’s a venue that feels both professional and deeply personal, a rare combo in my experience.
The main event, a 5-a-side knockout tournament, saw 12 teams battling it out over two days. I’ve followed local football for years, and I’ve got to say, the level of play here was a notch above what I expected. Take the semifinal match between Bacolod FC and a visiting Cebu squad—it was edge-of-your-seat stuff. Bacolod’s midfielder, Javier Santos, netted two goals in under five minutes, turning what looked like a sure loss into a 3-2 victory. The crowd erupted, and I found myself cheering louder than I have in ages. It’s moments like these that make Panaad more than just a field; it’s a crucible for rising talent.
Nonetheless, it was a strong follow up for the Philippine teams after their showing in the Manila Hustle 3x3 Season 3 last week. You could see the confidence oozing from the players—less hesitation, more flair. I spoke with Coach Ramos from the winning team, and he put it perfectly: "Manila gave these kids a taste of high-stakes competition. Here, they’re proving they belong." And he’s right. The transition from 3x3 to traditional formats isn’t always smooth, but the squads adapted beautifully, using their speed and creativity to dominate possession. Personally, I think this bodes well for the national scene. We’ve got raw talent; it just needs the right platforms to shine.
Beyond the matches, the organizers nailed the fan experience. There were skill workshops for kids, live bands playing OPM classics, and even a mini-fair showcasing local crafts. I spent a good hour at a stall selling handwoven football scarves—ended up buying two, because why not? It’s this blend of sport and culture that makes events here unforgettable. And let’s not forget the food. I tried a grilled chicken skewer from a vendor near the east gate that I’m still dreaming about. If you’re planning a visit, come hungry.
Wrapping up the weekend, I left with a renewed appreciation for what Panaad represents. It’s not just a field; it’s a community hub, a launchpad for dreams, and frankly, one of the most underrated venues in the Visayas. The final match drew a crowd of roughly 7,200—a solid turnout that speaks volumes about the growing appetite for football in the region. As the sun set behind the hills, painting the sky in shades of orange and purple, I thought about how far the local scene has come. There’s still work to be done—better funding, more media coverage—but the heart is there. And if this weekend was any indication, the future of Philippine football is bright, and a big part of it will unfold right here in Bacolod.