Skatepark prep begins with ocular inspection

CEBU, Philippines — The plan to establish the city’s own temporary skateboarding hub is pushing forward, with Cebu City Councilor Pastor “Jun” Alcover Jr. confirming that ocular inspections at the South Road Properties (SRP) ground has begun.

The Grand Parade Ground at the SRP will serve as a temporary skateboarding hub while the city finalizes plans for a permanent public skatepark. The inspection team included personnel from the Engineering Office and General Services.

In an interview with THE FREEMAN, Alcover said that the site is being readied with repairs on its restrooms, water supply, lighting, and roofing. He added that the work is expected to start next week.

“Limpyohan na to’ng lugar, ang mga CR, ayuhon, tubig, suga, ug roofing,” Alcover said.

According to Alcover, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival has agreed to the site’s temporary use.

“Ah, temporarily. Temporarily. Mao ra gihapon. Didto as temporary, kay nindot sad ug gwapo man sad ang gamit diha,” he added.

The calls for a Cebu City skatepark have grown louder in recent years, especially after Cebuana Olympian Margielyn Didal’s success in international competitions.

Skateboarders and BMX riders have long sought a safe, dedicated venue, arguing that the city has the talent to produce world-class athletes but lacks proper facilities.

In July 2026, the City Council passed a resolution to convert the SRP grounds into a temporary skatepark while awaiting a permanent site.

Archival later issued a memorandum creating the Special Body for the development of the proposed Cebu City public skatepark, chaired by Alcover, to consult stakeholders and recommend long-term solutions.

Alcover said the city will continue to meet with skateboarding groups to identify a permanent location.

“We will be meeting with katong atong grupo sa mga sa skateboards puhon para makatigom ta kon asa na dapit ang kuan. Tutal, kuan naman, open naman siya(Mayor Archival),” Alcover added.

He expressed optimism that the temporary hub could be operational before year’s end.

“I’m hoping lang ta nga maana gyud, mag-initial. Possibly before the end of this year, or unya magamit na to nila sa ilahang temporary nga hub nila,” Alcover added. (CEBU NEWS)