SINULOG VENUE: Cebu City handling newly repaired CCSC track oval with care

Local

THE Cebu City Government is actively implementing measures to protect the rubberized track oval at the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC) from damage as Sinulog 2025 approaches.

This follows SBD Builders' announcement that it will not cover any additional damage during the festival. The city is putting in place enhanced safeguards to preserve the track’s integrity throughout the celebration.

Councilor Jerry Guardo, who chairs the infrastructure committee, emphasized the need for extra caution in handling the track to prevent any possible harm.

He noted that past experiences have shown how vulnerable the rubber surface can be during large events.

Guardo highlighted the particular challenges faced when damages occurred after the Palarong Pambansa in July 2024 and Pasigarbo sa Sugbo just months later.

The rubberized track was specially designed for athletic use, and the city's effort to protect its integrity remains paramount, with Guardo stating that the track's vulnerability has been a key factor in the city's precautionary approach moving forward.

The city has mandated the use of manlifts for transporting materials to the centerfield and plywood covers for portions of the track.

This is done to ensure no further damage occurs while setting up for the Sinulog events.

The city is also focusing on managing the materials and equipment that will come into contact with the track to minimize any risk. Guardo has insisted that manpower deployment be ramped up to monitor the condition of the oval continuously during the festivities.

The track oval has a rocky history with recurring closures for repairs due to previous damage. It underwent extensive repairs in May 2023 ahead of Palarong Pambansa.

However, the damage from heavy equipment during transport was noticeable even before the event, leading to another round of repairs. The track was shut again on November 13, 2024, following more damages sustained at Pasigarbo sa Sugbo, all of which were repaired with funds provided by SBD Builders.

SBD Builders incurred costs of roughly P3.8 million for the repairs after their insurance claim was denied.

The company had initially promised to finish the work by December 2024 in time for Sinulog 2025, ensuring that the track would be in top shape for the event.

The closures have significantly impacted the revenue of the CCSC, as it generates about half of what it did before the repair disruptions.

During the media's visit at the facility, CCSC Manager Jovito Taborada revealed that the center saw a drastic decline in daily income, from P60,000 to P30,000, following the track’s closure. Despite the financial hit, Taborada assured that the track had undergone repairs and is in good condition.

As the city ramps up preparations for Sinulog, Guardo pointed out that stage installation, along with the setting up of LED lights and walls, is already underway, with heightened vigilance over the track's condition.

Guardo called for the careful monitoring of all activities that might affect the oval, especially with heavier equipment set to enter the facility.(MyTVCebu)