CAGAYAN de Oro City — Local athletes and sports fans could soon have safer places to play and watch as the Cagayan de Oro City Council moves to strengthen safety standards for sporting events.
Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez and Councilor Jonjon Rodriguez have introduced the proposed Cagayan de Oro City Sports Safety and Security Ordinance of 2026, which would require organizers to follow uniform safety, venue and medical response protocols.
If approved, the measure would cover sporting events ranging from barangay basketball tournaments and school competitions to marathons and other organized sports activities across the city.
Safer courts, faster response
Under the proposed ordinance, sports venues would undergo safety inspections before competitions.
Organizers would need to ensure that playing areas have adequate lighting, non-slip surfaces and secure sports equipment before athletes take the court or field.
The measure would also require public and private sports events to have trained first responders and emergency action plans to ensure injured athletes receive immediate assistance.
For young athletes, school leagues and youth sports programs would be required to conduct pre-event safety briefings for players, coaches and parents.
New body to monitor safety
The proposal would create a City Sports Safety and Monitoring Council to oversee venue inspections, monitor event preparations and ensure organizers comply with safety requirements.
The body would also help establish accountability among event organizers and prioritize the welfare of athletes and spectators.
“Safety should never be an afterthought in sports,” Rodriguez said.
The proposed ordinance still needs to go through the city council's legislative process before it can take effect.
If approved, it would establish citywide safety standards aimed at giving Cagayan de Oro athletes and sports communities safer venues for competition and recreation.
