Damaged CCSC track oval to remain open

Local

CRACKED but still open.

DUE to lack of funds to rehabilitate it, the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC) oval will remain accessible to runners and athletes even as damages become more visible, Mayor Nestor Archival said Thursday, September 4.

“Considering naa naman gyud ni and wala pa man tay kwarta na i-rehabilitate, ipa-continue lang usa ni ug gamit. But we will make sure magbutang ta ug signages sa areas nga be careful,” Archival told reporters after his inspection of the facility.

The mayor said the walkthrough was prompted by complaints from runners who warned of cracks, humps, and bulges on the rubberized track that could cause accidents.

He added he has ordered CCSC executive director Brando Velasquez and the Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW) to submit a physical and engineering report to check whether the contractor delivered on its commitments.

City Treasurer Emma Villarete confirmed that as of March 26, 2024, payment equivalent to 60.40 percent of the contractor’s work had already been released. She said the status of the remaining balance is still under review.

The CCSC oval underwent a P53-million rehabilitation from May 2023 to July 2024 for the Palarong Pambansa, but has again developed cracks, peeling, and water-damaged portions less than a year later.

Velasquez, who took over as CCSC executive director in July, earlier said the rapid deterioration pointed to poor-quality materials.

“Naay portion nga risky na kay nibutlog na, espalto na ang nisaka. Poor quality gyud pinakarisgo akong tan-aw,” he said, noting that uneven spots could trip athletes.

He compared the current track to the German-made rubber surface installed in 1994 that lasted almost two decades before it required major replacement in 2013.

Archival said the city’s immediate step will be to place safety signages around the oval. Long-term, he vowed to include the track’s full replacement in future city budgets.

“Well, ang atong main goal ani sa future is himoan ni ug budget, ato ni siyang ilisdan,” he said.

Velasquez also suggested adding protective measures, such as plywood coverings during big events like the Sinulog Festival, to prevent further damage while waiting for funds.(TGP)