President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday led an inspection of the Jesse M. Robredo Coliseum (JMRC), showing his support for its renovation and retrofitting as a vital facility in Naga City.
The President, who conducted an inspection of ongoing Oplan Kontra Baha (OKB) operations in the area, was welcomed by Naga City Mayor Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo and other local government officials.
Mayor Robredo is the widow of the late former Naga City Mayor Jesse M. Rorbedo, after whom the coliseum was named.
During the visit, President Marcos formally turned over a Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) worth PhP500 million to fund the retrofitting and modernization of the coliseum, including the installation of a community kitchen capable of feeding thousands during disasters, improvements to sanitation facilities, roofing system upgrades, and structural strengthening.
The funds would also cover the enhancements of the drainage system to prevent flooding and the addition of dedicated medical response areas for emergencies.
The initiative aims to strengthen the local government’s capacity to plan and respond swiftly and effectively during natural disasters and other crises.
Built in 2010 during the term of the then Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary, the coliseum—widely known as the “Big Dome of the South”—can accommodate 12,000 people seated and up to 15,000 for standing-room events. It regularly hosts basketball games, concerts, school tournaments, and major cultural gatherings in the region.
Over the years, the JMRC has served as a critical evacuation and relief center, which withstood powerful typhoons, including Super Typhoon Rolly and Typhoon Kristine, as well as several earthquakes, without sustaining major structural damage.
During Typhoon Kristine, while much of Naga City experienced flooding, the coliseum remained dry and functioned as a logistics hub for relief distribution across Camarines Sur.
Despite its resilience, the facility was not originally designed for prolonged use as a shelter.
Recent disasters exposed several limitations, including insufficient toilets, showers, and laundry areas; the absence of permanent industrial-grade kitchens for mass feeding; and fixed seating that makes it difficult to sleep during disasters.
The planned renovation will ensure that the coliseum remains a safe and dependable facility serving both as a premier events venue and an evacuation center for the people of Naga and nearby provinces.
Source: PIA Bicol Region