MANILA (February 22) – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday led the turnover of about ₱500 million for the renovation and retrofitting of the Jesse M. Robredo Coliseum (JMRC) in Naga City. The funds were released through a Special Allotment Release Order, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said.

Named after the late Naga City Mayor and Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, the JMRC has been a key venue for basketball games, concerts, school tournaments, and cultural events since its opening in 2010. It also serves as a vital evacuation and relief center, having withstood major typhoons and earthquakes.

The budget will cover retrofitting and modernization, including the installation of a community kitchen for disaster response, upgraded sanitation and drainage systems, reinforced roofing and structural improvements, and dedicated medical response areas.

City officials emphasized that the renovation aims to make the coliseum safer and more functional during calamities while maintaining its role as a premier events venue. Despite its resilience, past disasters exposed limitations such as insufficient toilets, showers, laundry areas, and seating not suited for evacuees.

“During Typhoon Kristine, the coliseum remained dry while much of Naga City flooded. The planned upgrades will ensure evacuees are comfortable and the facility can serve both as a disaster shelter and major community venue,” the PCO said.

With a seating capacity of around 12,000 (up to 15,000 for standing events), the JMRC is known as the “Big Dome of the South” and remains central to Naga City’s disaster preparedness and community activities.