RMSC doesn’t come cheap

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) will definitely vacate the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex (RMSC).

But only if the price is right.

This developed after the second round of talks between the PSC and Manila City government last week  failed to produce positive results.

After the meeting, PSC chair Butch Ramirez reportedly sought advice from  the Department of Justice (DOJ).

The DOJ  said  the City of Manila owns the 9.3-hectare sports complex but the PSC can invoke its usufruct rights to the property.

Under this, the government sports agency has the right to negotiate to collect a big share of the amount  generated from the sale of the sports complex.

Because of this, Ramirez had a change of heart and will not settle for the 50-50 share anymore.

If the talks are  successful, the PSC plans to build a P3- to P6-billion sports complex inside the Green City in Clark, Pampanga.

Under the proposal, the PSC will build a National Sports Training Center with amodern track and field oval and a Sports Institute equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for the scientific sports training and development of our national athletes.

It is said that the RMSC located along Vito Cruz in Manila has a market value of about P8 to P10 billion.

The Razon Group of Companies has  expressed interest in buying the 83-year-old complex.

It plans to redevelop  and build  contemporary buildings that will house modern offices and commercial areas.

Last week, several leaders of national sports associations (NSAs) and other sports personalitiescalled on president Digong to reject the sale of the historic RMSC.