Hoops Dome opens; Mayor Radaza vows to make Lapu tourism haven

LAPU-LAPU City Mayor Paz Radaza promised to make Lapu-Lapu City a haven for tourism, business, investment, residence and recreation with Saturday’s grand opening of the city’s P192-million Hoops Dome.

The airconditioned dome in barangay Gun-ob is the biggest venue for indoor sports and entertainment events, Radaza said. It can hold up to 8,000 people and has 2,474 bucket seats with cup holders.

“With Lapu-Lapu City’s hosting of the Philippines versus Japan Davis Cup tennis tournament in the newly-constructed tennis court early this year, and with the launch of this Hoops Dome, we aspire to host more international events that will put Lapu-Lapu City in the map of world-class sports tourism destinations,” the mayor said.

“We would welcome if a private sector entity offers to manage the dome but we will write the memorandum of agreement. For now, no one has made an offer.”

Councilor Harry Radaza said they invited events organizers to let them know that the dome is available for rent. He said they can make price inquiries at the mayor’s office.

The dome was completed in December 2008 and was used by the Department of Education and other agencies before Saturday’s launch.

Saranggani Congressman Manny Pacquiao held a free concert with his MP band during the opening of the dome.

Pacquiao, accompanied by composer Lito Camo, sang a set of five songs.

Those who could not get into the arena watched the concert through widescreens set up outside.

Councilor Radaza earlier said they invited Pacquiao because he is close to the masses. The world boxing champion agreed to perform upon the invitation of the mayor’s husband  Congressman Arturo Radaza.

Arturo and Pacquiao are seatmates in the Lower House.

Pacquiao arrived in Mactan Cebu International Airport around 3 p.m. on board on a private plane with his wife Jinky and Congressman Chavit Singson. /Reporter Jucell Marie P. Cuyos