PSC plots Rizal Memorial modernization

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is eyeing a major transformation of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex (RMSC), with plans to modernize its existing facilities and develop additional spaces to turn the historic venue into a world-class sports hub.

PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio said the agency is exploring the installation of a retractable roof at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum as part of its long-term master plan.

“Did you know that the Rizal Memorial Coliseum used to have a tennis court? That’s what we saw in the Rizal Memorial master plan,” Gregorio said, looking forward to finally pump life into the historic sports venue that was built for the country’s hosting of the Far Eastern Championship Games in 1934.

“But with the technology available nowadays, we can also install a retractable roof.”

The PSC is also in talks with Spanish sports construction firm Sener, which Gregorio said has experience in building stadiums for the International Football Federation (FIFA).

The agency is likewise pursuing a government grant to help finance the proposed transformation of the sports complex.

In the meantime, rehabilitation work is ongoing at Rizal Memorial, with Gregorio directing officials to improve the coliseum’s scoreboard, lighting system and other facilities.

The baseball field is also nearing completion ahead of the East Asia Cup with the PSC targeting 30 November or 1 December to finish the project.

Gregorio said the upgraded facility will feature wire mesh fencing similar to those used in baseball venues in the United States, replacing the existing high walls surrounding the field.

The PSC is also preparing the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center for the Philippine Women’s Open, a Women’s Tennis Association 125 tournament scheduled for January.