BACOLOD City Representative Greg Gasataya expressed support for the construction of Bacolod MassKara Coliseum in the city.
Gasataya said this is a good project for the city because it will attract tourists, especially for sports tourism aspect.
"I fully support it and it is a good move because it can also utilize by the city for other purposes like a venue for conventions or gatherings that requires a big venue, which we do not have right now," he said.
Gasataya noted that in terms of sports, Bacolod really needs the Coliseum so it can further hold national and international events.
Councilor Dindo Ramos had earlier said that Bacolod is entitled to apply a loan amounting to P4 billion with the Department of Finance (DOF) to fund the city's priority projects.
The City Council authorized Mayor Evelio Leonardia to explore and negotiate with the DOF-Mediumterm Development Fund (MDF) Financial Assistance or any government banking or financial institution to fund the city's projects.
The city's priority projects are the development of the Progreso Village Relocation Site (PVRS) and the Bacolod City College; the construction of Bacolod MassKara Coliseum; construction of roads and bridges; establishment of the South and East Transportation Terminals; and the Public Safety ICT Solution which includes traffic surveillance; virtual checkpoints; and electric police (E-Police) that is for auto-recognition of red light and licensed plates.
The construction of the Bacolod MassKara Coliseum is seen to start within the year.
Meanwhile, Gasataya said he is also planning to extend assistance to the schools with facilities or venue for sports and conferences.
"Hopefully, by next year we can undertake this for the development and improvement of the school's facilities," he said. (MAP)