Worth more than a ‘billion pesos’
TACLOBAN CITY – The largest sports and tourism complex in the Visayas officially commenced construction with a groundbreaking ceremony on September 13, 2024, in Barangay Canmogsay, Tolosa, Leyte.
The event was attended by Tingog party-list Rep.Jude Acidre, DPWH Region VIII Regional Director Edgar Tabacon, Municipal Mayor Erwin Ocaña, and officials of Canmogsay.
The proposed sports complex sits on a 20-hectare lot in Brgy. Canmogsay.
“This project is not only significant to Tolosa but also to the entire Leyte area, as development and progress will extend to nearby municipalities,” said Tabacon.
The project was given an initial allocation of P200 million to begin the construction of a multi-purpose building or sports center, which will serve as the pilot project for the entire complex.
In his speech, Rep.Acidre emphasized the vital role sports play, especially in inspiring the youth.
He noted that the complex would not only foster athletic development but also contribute to the local economy by attracting tourists, creating small businesses, and generating job opportunities.
“We are not just breaking ground for a stadium, we are laying the foundation for a brighter, more progressive future for Tolosa and the entire province of Leyte. This is not simply a structure built by human labor; it is a testament to our collective aspiration for greatness,” Acidre stated.
The solon said that the entire budget of the proposed facility, envisioned to be the largest in entire Visayas, would reached to ‘over billions of pesos’ and is targeted to be completed within four years
The mid-rise structure, with a total floor area of approximately 34,395 square meters and a mezzanine floor, will include a football stadium with bleachers and a track and field setup.
Tabacon mentioned that the stadium, inspired by Singapore’s modern designs, will have a seating capacity of 20,000 and will be equipped to host various sporting events.
Additional facilities will be constructed around the multi-purpose building to support these activities.
The entire complex is designed to be a centralized hub for sports, promoting physical activity, social interaction, and healthy competition. It is envisioned to host a variety of sports events, benefiting not only athletes but also the local community.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
