CCSC oval remains open for public use

CEBU, Philippines — Despite visible surface damage posing risks to runners, the rubberized track oval at the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC) will remain open for public use but is being considered for another round of funding for repairs in next year’s annual budget.

Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival led an inspection of the facility on Thursday morning, noting that the primary concern is the damage—mostly around the starting line. He and CCSC Executive Chairman Brando Velasquez agreed that a formal status report would be submitted to the Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW).

Archival also ordered an investigation into whether the contractor had completed the project and received full payment.

“Now kung nabayran na, tan-awon nato if naa ba silay warranty, but I think dugay na mao ang posibilidad ani wala na,” he said.

In the meantime, the track oval will remain open, with Archival directing that warning signage be placed around the damaged portions. He added that the city would eventually allocate funds for a complete overhaul of the facility.

Velasquez earlier assessed that the damage may be due to the “poor quality” of materials used in the rubber surface.

Archival recalled that the contractor had appeared before the council in an executive session when he was still a councilor, shortly after Cebu hosted the Palarong Pambansa. At that time, the contractor attributed the damage to the transportation of materials during various events at the CCSC.

“Ako ning natan-aw diri, dili man ni kay sa atubangan ra (damages), tuyok man jud ni, unya makita sad nako diri nga ang starting point sa pagdagan maoy natuklap,” Archival said.

The rehabilitation contract was reportedly worth around P53 million. Archival said he initially heard that the contractor had already been paid 60 percent of the amount and that he would have to check if the project was still covered by warranty.

“These are things nga naay argumento nga gikan nila…but the point right now is pwede ba nila ni ma repair,” he added, stressing the need to revisit the project details since it was implemented under the previous administration.

If proven that substandard materials were used, Archival said the city would consider penalizing the contractor.

“Naa jud silay tulobagon,” he said.

Archival and Velasquez also compared the current rubber material to the one installed in 2012, noting the older surface was thicker and of better quality.

“Kung atong tan-awon, murag substandard,” said Archival.

Cebu City Treasurer Emma Villarete confirmed to The Freeman that 60.40 percent of the payment was released on March 26, 2024, while the status of the remaining balance still has to be checked.

The track oval was reopened on June 27, 2024, after major renovation, just days before Cebu City hosted the Palarong Pambansa. However, it was closed again on November 13, 2024, for refurbishments due to surface damage, which were completed later that month. — /FPL (FREEMAN)