Grand launch of renovated Cebu Coliseum today

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu Coliseum, once a fading monument to the city’s athletic past, has emerged from years of disrepair into a revitalized civic landmark—cooler, brighter, and more inclusive than ever.

Now under the stewardship of University of Cebu chairman, Atty. Augusto W. Go, the coliseum’s transformation is more than architectural. It’s aspirational.

“This is not just for basketball,” Go told The Freeman, standing beneath the newly installed ceiling panels. “This is for Cebu. For culture. For the people.”

The scent of fresh paint and the gleam of Canadian maple flooring now greet visitors at the newly renovated Cebu Coliseum, which will have its grand launch and blessing today, September 6.

From Heat to Hope: A Breathable Future

For decades, the coliseum was known as much for its legacy as for its sweltering conditions. But that era is over.

The venue now boasts a fully air conditioning system designed to deliver comfort even during peak events.

Go emphasized the importance of climate control not just for athletes, but for every Cebuano who walks through its doors.

“The weather is different now,” he said. “Even without the aircon, the new ceiling repels heat. But with the aircon on, it’s truly comfortable. People deserve that.”

The ceiling itself has been replaced with heat-resistant plastic panels, reinforced with top-grade materials to withstand Cebu’s tropical climate. Two massive industrial fans complement the air conditioning system, ensuring airflow reaches every corner of the arena.

NBA-Grade Floors, Community-Grade Heart

The centerpiece of the renovation is the new Canadian maple wood flooring—two layers thick, FIBA-standard and NBA-grade. “This is national-level,” Go said. “Athletes will feel the difference.”

Seating and basketball rings have been upgraded, structural reinforcements added along with a jumbotron or large led video display screen for scoring and instant reviews, among others.

The venue can now accommodate up to around 8,000 guests for cultural events and around 5,000 for basketball games, depending on the configuration.

But Go is adamant about one thing: no overselling. “I want people to be comfortable. We will stop selling tickets once we reach capacity. No more squeezing in.”

Parking, Accessibility, and Civic Intent

One of the most pressing concerns was parking. “If you don’t have parking, no use,” Go said.

Plans are underway for a four-story parking facility that could accommodate more vehicles.

Negotiations are also in progress with nearby establishments like Elizabeth Mall to extend parking hours during events.

Go’s vision extends beyond infrastructure. He sees the coliseum as a venue for gymnastics, boxing, cultural showcases, and civic gatherings.

“This is open for all. We want kids to play safely. We want to inspire. We want to build something that lasts.”

A Civic Arena, Not Just a Commercial One

Go’s tone throughout the conversation was one of humility and hope.

“This is not mine,” he said. “This is for Cebu. For the community. For civil society. We’re not just making money—we’re making meaning.”

Already, inquiries are pouring in. “I am surprised. People are very interested. I’m very happy.”

As the Cebu Coliseum prepares to host the opening of the 50th season of the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (CESAFI) on September 13, it stands not just as a refurbished venue—but as a renewed promise--a promise that Cebu’s civic spaces can be beautiful, inclusive, and built with purpose.

And as Go put it, “Why did we build the YMCA? Why did we build the Patria? Because we want the kids to be doing something safe. Something good. That’s what this is for.” (CEBU NEWS)