ILOILO – The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has stepped in to support the rehabilitation and upgrading of the Iloilo Sports Complex (ISC) in La Paz, Iloilo City, signaling a major intervention following mounting public concern over deteriorating facilities that could hinder the development of Ilonggo athletes.
PSC chairman John Patrick Gregorio committed to assist the Iloilo provincial government in upgrading key components of the complex, including the track oval, basketball and volleyball courts, football field, and gym equipment, after meeting with Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. recently.
“We want to invest in upgrading sports facilities to help our athletes achieve their full potential,” Gregorio said.
The assistance comes in the wake of a viral social media post that exposed the damaged condition of the ISC track oval, drawing widespread criticism and renewed calls for accountability and immediate action.
“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,” part of the Facebook post read.
The concerned citizen stressed the need for urgent repairs, noting the impact on athletes who continue to train despite poor conditions.
“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.
In response, the Iloilo Sports Development and Management Office (ISDMO) confirmed that the provincial government has already allocated P1 million for the repair of the track oval, underscoring its commitment to improving the facility and ensuring its safe use.
Gregorio also urged the provincial government to prepare a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to formalize the partnership for the rehabilitation and upgrading of the sports complex.
The PSC’s involvement is expected to accelerate long-delayed improvements and restore confidence among athletes, as Iloilo moves to modernize its premier sports facility and strengthen grassroots sports development./PN
