Dinagat Islands Lands P100-M PSC Boost for Long-Awaited Sports Complex

BUTUAN CITY  (February 12) — In a major step toward strengthening grassroots sports and youth development, the provincial government of Dinagat Islands has secured PHP100 million in funding from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) for the construction of the Dinagat Islands Sports Complex.

Governor Nilo Demerey Jr. confirmed Wednesday that land preparation has already begun at the project site in Barangay Wilson, San Jose, signaling the start of what local officials describe as a landmark investment in the province’s future athletes.

The funding was finalized during a meeting in Manila on Tuesday between Demerey and PSC Chair Patrick Gregorio.

“The funding from the PSC will cover the first phase of the construction of the sports complex, which will include a 400-meter rubberized track oval consisting of eight lanes and a central field for multi-sports activities,” Demerey said.

A Game-Changer for a Growing Province

For Dinagat Islands — one of the country’s youngest and geographically isolated provinces — access to modern sports infrastructure has long been limited.

The first phase of the sports complex will include:

• An eight-lane, 400-meter rubberized track oval
• A central field for multiple sports events
• Spectator stands
• Lighting facilities
• Drainage systems
• Community jogging lanes and fitness stations

Beyond athletic competitions, the facility is envisioned as a shared public space where residents can engage in fitness and community activities.

Investing in Youth Potential

Demerey expressed optimism that the new rubberized track and multi-sport field will give local athletes a proper venue to train — something many have lacked.

For years, aspiring runners and athletes in Dinagat trained on improvised grounds, often traveling outside the province to compete under regulation standards.

With the complex in place, the provincial government plans to roll out organized sports development programs aimed at identifying and nurturing promising athletes for regional and national competitions.

The governor described the project not merely as infrastructure, but as an investment in youth empowerment.

“This symbolizes progress and investment in the province’s youth,” he said, noting that the facility could inspire more young people to pursue sports instead of drifting toward unproductive activities.

Collaboration and Technical Support

Demerey also acknowledged the role of Dick Victor Carmona, secretary general of the Philippine Councilors League in Caraga, for providing technical assistance during the presentation of Dinagat’s sports development program to the PSC.

The funding partnership underscores growing national support for sports development in far-flung provinces, aligning with broader efforts to strengthen grassroots athletic programs outside major urban centers.

More Than a Sports Facility

For residents of Dinagat Islands, the sports complex represents more than rubber tracks and grandstands — it is a symbol that the province is catching up in terms of infrastructure, opportunity, and youth development.

As construction moves forward, local leaders hope the facility will produce not only medal contenders, but healthier communities and stronger local pride.