Sprucing Up an Icon

CEBU, Philippines - One of the most iconic venues for big events in the city has reclaimed its former glory. Southwestern University-PHINMA reopened on Friday, July 1, its newly renovated Aznar Coliseum.

Known to many today simply as “Azco,” Aznar Coliseum has been a venue to various events, both local, national and international, including concerts by foreign acts.  It has no doubt played a good part in the modern history of Cebu City.

Located along Aznar Road near the main SWU-PHINMA campus, the Coliseum, which was designed mainly for athletes and athletic events, has been the practice arena of the Cobras, the university’s official basketball team. It has also been the venue of big university activities.

The reopening ceremony was led and attended by the SWU-PHINMA executive officials, together with the college heads.

SWU-PHINMA president Chito B. Salazar said that the renovation is focused on the important facilities.  The first phase has improved key facilities like the showers, comfort rooms, basketball rings as well as the two fitness gyms inside. The Coliseum has a seating capacity of 5,000 to 7,000.

A new ceiling has also been installed to further boost the structure. Gilbert Braganza, vice president for Student Life, said that the second phase of the renovation project would entail additional ceiling fans and changes with the floor and interior design. It’s expected to be in place next year.

The sprucing up of Azco goes with several renovation projects in the SWU-PHINMA main campus, including the Sacred Heart Hospital, according to Braganza. The total cost is estimated to be around 500 billion pesos.

The establishment of a sports science center is also being planned. It will help the university coaches, athletes and sports enthusiasts develop integrity and sportsmanship with the aid of proper facilities.

The Coliseum will be open for the public before the end of the year. (FREEMAN)