CEBU CITY — The City government has set an ultimatum for SBD Builders to complete the rehabilitation of the dilapidated rubberized track oval at the Cebu City Sports Center (CCSC) by the end of the month or face potential termination of their contract.
Newly installed Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia expressed frustration over the ongoing delays and warned that decisive action would be taken if progress is not made soon.
In addition to the oval track, SBD Builders is also facing scrutiny over the delayed construction of a bridge in Sitio Candarong, Barangay Pulangbato. The bridge project, which began on September 15, 2023, was originally expected to be completed within 240 calendar days.
However, a recent inspection by Garcia revealed no workers were present on-site, raising concerns about the project’s timeline.
The CCSC track oval, which reopened to the public in July following extensive renovations for the 2024 Palarong Pambansa, has already sustained damage just months after its unveiling.
Despite Garcia’s orders for immediate repairs, SBD Builders has yet to initiate the work.
“We’re giving them until the end of the month to finish the oval track. They promised to start repairs soon, so we’ll see if they follow through,” Garcia said.
SBD Builders president Shaun Doherty has attributed the oval’s damage to heavy equipment used during the Palarong Pambansa and other events. He noted that although the company had not been fully compensated for the initial P44 million project, they were willing to proceed with repairs at the mayor’s request.
So far, SBD Builders has received only P29 million of the total payment.
Doherty emphasized that his company is being tasked with repairing damages they did not cause, yet they are prepared to begin repairs once the necessary materials arrive.
The ongoing situation has raised concerns among local athletes and sports organizations who rely on the CCSC for training and events. Many have expressed disappointment over the delays, emphasizing the importance of having a safe and functional track for their activities.
Garcia’s ultimatum has also ignited discussions about the overall management of city projects and accountability. As the government continues to navigate these challenges, community members are watching closely, hoping for swift action and resolution.
As the city government awaits progress on both projects, Mayor Garcia’s ultimatum intensifies pressure on SBD Builders to meet the end-of-month deadline or risk losing their contract for the oval track.
The CCSC track had been closed for rehabilitation since May 2023. SBD Builders was awarded the contract in October of that year, with work starting after the notice to proceed was issued in January 2024.
The track reopened in June, just ahead of the Palarong Pambansa, but has already sustained damage just months after its unveiling.
