Ready for Sinulog 2025: CCSC track oval repair complete

CEBU, Philippines — After nearly two months of closure, repairs on the rubberized track oval at the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC) have been completed, just in time for the upcoming Sinulog Festival 2025. This was confirmed by CCSC Manager Jovito Taburada during an interview on Friday.

The track oval is now being used for the Cebu City Olympics, signaling its readiness for large-scale events. However, Taburada clarified that a decision on whether to reopen the track oval to the general public remains pending and will ultimately be made by Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia.

The swimming pool and other facilities, however, will remain open to the public despite closure of the track oval.

Taburada also acknowledged the financial impact of the track oval’s closure, noting a significant decline in revenue.

 He said that on regular operational days, the facility would generate an average of P60,000 daily. However, this figure dropped to around P30,000 per day during the closure, marking a 50% reduction in income.

The track oval was closed to the public on November 13, 2024, following Garcia’s announcement of necessary refurbishments due to surface damage.

The rehabilitation was delayed after SBD Builders, the contractor, requested an extension to start repairs. Additionally, the Cebu City Council conducted an inspection of the track oval before work commenced to provide recommendations.

The contractor initially committed to completing the repairs within three weeks, emphasizing that the damages were not caused by substandard materials but by the mobilization of equipment and materials used during previous events, including the Palarong Pambansa and the Pasigarbo sa Sugbo.

Despite earlier suggestions to postpone repairs until after the Sinulog Festival, Garcia decided that delaying the project would only exacerbate the damages. By the time repairs began, only 60% of the track oval’s surface was deemed damaged.

Sinulog preparations in full swing

As the CCSC track oval reopens for events, the focus shifts to ensuring that Sinulog 2025 is a resounding success. In fact, the stage construction is now 90 percent complete. The Sinulog Festival is expected to draw large crowds from across the country and beyond, making the completion of the track oval repairs a timely boost to the city’s readiness.

 Local authorities are also keen on maintaining a secure environment, coordinating closely with law enforcement and other agencies to uphold public safety during the festivities.

The return of the Sinulog to the CCSC highlights Cebu City’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage while ensuring that facilities are in top condition to accommodate the event's grandeur. — Iris Hazel Mascardo/FPL