ILOILO — A viral social media post flagging damaged portions of the rubberized track oval at the Iloilo Sports Complex (ISC) in La Paz, Iloilo City has put the condition of one of Iloilo Province’s key sports facilities under public scrutiny, prompting officials to assure athletes and the public that repairs are already in motion.
The issue gained traction after a concerned parent shared photos and a personal account on Facebook showing patches of worn and destroyed rubber on the oval, raising concerns over athlete safety and the state of sports infrastructure in the province.
“When my son asked me if there are running facilities in Iloilo, I told him we have the Iloilo Sports Complex. It is being used for sports meets. He trains for tracks and I respect his discipline for trainings so I follow my son’s schedule. And tadaaa…. patches of destroyed rubber in the oval,” the post read.
The parent added that the condition of the track could affect the confidence and morale of athletes who regularly train at the facility, urging authorities to prioritize repairs and ensure that allocated funds are properly used.
“We can do better for athletes. My son is only here for a few days so it doesn’t matter to him. It does matter to my pride, hahaha. But (I) also saw athletes training on their own despite the threat of rain. They need support and confidence boost. Sana ayusin. May budget ‘yan. Always. ‘Wag lang ilihis ang budget,” the post added.
Following the viral post and media attention, the Iloilo Sports Development and Management Office (ISDMO), which manages and operates the sports complex under the Iloilo provincial government, issued an official statement explaining the status of the repair project.
“The planned repair of the ICS track oval underwent a bidding process last December; however the bidding failed due to the inability of the interested contractor to purchase the bid documents on the day prior to the scheduled bidding. As a result, no valid bid was submitted during the said period,” ISDMO said.
The office said the provincial government has moved swiftly to address the setback.
“In response to this development, the Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) of the Province of Iloilo has scheduled a rebidding of the project this January. The repair project has an approved budget of P1 million reflecting the province’s commitment to improving the facility and ensuring its safe and proper use,” ISDMO added.
The concerns over the track oval surfaced just days before major Dinagyang-related events, including the Opening Salvo of Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan on January 10 and the Ati Tribes Competition on January 11. The Iloilo Sports Complex is one of the two official venues for this year’s Dinagyang competitions, alongside the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand in City Proper.
The provincial government has yet to announce a definite timeline for the completion of the repairs but assured the public that the rebidding process is aimed at ensuring the facility meets safety standards for athletes and upcoming events./PN
