State-of-the-art astrodome inaugurated in Pototan
Pototan Astrodome considered to be one of the state-of-the-art astrodomes in Western Visayas was inaugurated recently.
The ribbon cutting spearheaded by
(from left to right) PCL President Lilia Y.
Gonzales, Board Member Licurgo Tirador,
Mrs. Cosette Defensor, Pototan Mayor
Pablo Perez and Congressman Arthur
Defensor. Ian C. Espada Photo
The project was first conceived by former Congressman now Board Member Licurgo Tirador (Iloilo, 3rd District) in 1992, pursued by the late Pototan Mayor Manuel Parcon during his incumbency and completed by Rep. Arthur Defensor (Iloilo, 3rd District).
The astrodome which is strategically standing in 3,000 square-meter area of the town plaza has a total cost of P45,645,000. Of the amount, P24 million was initially released by then Congressman Tirador.
It has a total seating capacity of 5,500 persons - 2,500 in the lower portion while 3,000 in the bleachers.
Defensor said the astrodome has a very good architectural design and is using equipment not yet available in other coliseums or astrodomes in Western Visayas.
The Pototan astrodome facade.
He said "this is not just a coliseum but will also serve as a venue for social and cultural affairs and as center for meetings and conferences for the people and officials of Pototan."
Defensor said Pototan Astrodome can be used for free, however, the Municipality of Pototan will create a separate office to manage or oversee the operation of the said edifice soon.
This project also got the full support of Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. (Capitol News)