PSC: Rizal stadium sale needs Duterte nod

It will definitely take time before the Philippine Sports Commission and the national athletes pack their things and leave the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

PSC chair Butch Ramirez yesterday said they would have to sit down with Manila’s top officials on the proposed sale of the 82-year-old sports center and get the nod of President Duterte.

Ramirez added the government sports agency will also ask for the opinion of the Department of Justice on the real status of the 10-hectare property that houses the PSC offices, training facilities and dormitories of the national athletes.

“Once the PSC and Manila agree with legal support, we will seek the approval of the President,” said Ramirez during the PSA Forum at Shakey’s Malate.

While Manila owns the property, the PSC has been tasked to manage the facilities inside the RMSC.

“It’s a long process, but we’re already looking at a possible location to build a new sports complex for the athletes,” said Ramirez.

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority has recently allocated 100 hectares at Clark Green City in Pampanga for the projected new training center.

Ramirez said the government will allocate funding for the building of roads and facilities as well as the construction of a train that will ply the Manila to Clark route.

The Razon Group, which has been discussing the sale with Manila, offered to revitalize the RMSC through a preservation and urban renewal project where the historic landmarks within the complex will be kept intact.

A sports museum will be also be built along with commercial areas run by smart technologies, modern amenities and green open spaces.

The business areas are expected to compensate for the expensive and meticulous process of restoring and preserving the RMSC facade.