Lanao del Norte to host inaugural Mindanao Youth Games and build regional sports training hub

The Philippine province of Lanao del Norte will host the inaugural Mindanao Youth Games from March 17‑21, 2027. Organisers say the event will showcase the province’s world‑class facilities, including a FIFA‑certified football stadium and a World Athletics‑approved track, and will serve as a platform for talent identification, athlete development and regional unity, positioning Mindanao as a new sports‑tourism destination.

The Philippine Sports Commission, led by Chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio, also announced plans to develop a regional sports training centre at the Mindanao Civic Center. The 70‑hectare complex is slated to host training programmes across football, swimming, sepak takraw, tennis, basketball, volleyball, track and field, arnis and other disciplines, and could eventually evolve into a sports university. Congresswoman Imelda “Angging” Dimaporo expressed excitement, noting the facility’s prior role in national events and its potential to promote peace and produce champions from grassroots to gold level.