NAGA CITY, Philippines — Former Vice President and current Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo expressed her gratitude to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Sunday following the release of P500 million in national funding for the renovation of the Jesse M. Robredo Coliseum (JMRC).
The thank-you message comes just one day after the former political rivals met in Naga City, a gathering both leaders insisted was focused on public service rather than politics.
Funding for ‘Big Dome of the South’
In a statement posted on social media in Bicolano, Robredo confirmed the receipt of the Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) from the Marcos administration.
“Thank you very much, Mr. President, for the turnover of the SARO for P500M for the repair of our Coliseum,” Robredo said. She noted that the funding would allow the city to rehabilitate vital facilities that have faced years of neglect, including the Naga City Civic Center and the Metro Naga Sports Complex.
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the P500-million allocation is earmarked for the retrofitting and modernization of the JMRC. Planned upgrades include:
- Structural strengthening and roofing repairs.
- Improved sanitation facilities.
- The installation of a community kitchen designed to feed displaced residents during natural disasters.
The coliseum, known as the “Big Dome of the South,” was built in 2010 during the term of Robredo’s late husband, former DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo. With a standing capacity of 15,000, it serves as the region’s primary evacuation and relief hub.
‘Service Before Politics’
The meeting between Marcos and Robredo took place on Saturday during the President’s visit to Naga for a flood control inspection. The encounter drew significant public attention, given their history as the top two contenders in the 2022 presidential election.
Addressing the political undertones of the visit, President Marcos told reporters, “The most political thing that we did today—I wore my pink socks in honor of Mayor Leni.” The comment was a lighthearted nod to the signature color of Robredo’s 2022 campaign.
The President maintained that the visit was strictly institutional, aimed at addressing the city’s worsening flood problems.
Collaborative Effort
Mayor Robredo also extended her thanks to Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, her 2022 running mate, for bringing the city’s funding needs to Malacañang’s attention. She also acknowledged Executive Secretary Ralph Recto for facilitating the request.
The release of the funds occurs amid growing speculation regarding the 2028 presidential elections, with some political strategists suggesting Robredo as a potential contender against Vice President Sara Duterte. However, both Marcos and Robredo have remained firm that their recent cooperation is centered on governance and the immediate needs of Naga City.
