The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) expects to complete the rehabilitation of the Joaquin Enriquez Memorial Sports Complex in Baliwasan by the end of September this year.

This, as actual inspection of the project Saturday showed that the level of completion is now at 97% as of September 22. The inspection as spearheaded by Mayor Beng Climaco together with DPWH Asst. Secretary for Mindanao Max Carvajal and DPWH Region 9 Dir. Cayamombao Diya and other city and department officials including the private contractor.

The project, costing P196M is undertaken by the DPWH through a private contractor, RCDG Construction. The DPWH said the remaining 3% will be completed by the end of this month.

Mayor Climaco urged the DPWH to fast track the completion as she tasked City Engineer Christopher Navarro and Assistant City Administrator Cesar Raz to ensure that the project is structurally fit and that all requirements including lighting facilities and other amenities are met before the City Government accepts the project.

Rushing completion are the installation of artificial grass and the completion of the sepak takraw and volleyball courts including the training facility. Not included are the rehabilitation of the offices, particularly that occupied by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) in view of the presence of the Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOs) machines.

The JEMSC served as the largest evacuation center for internally displaced persons during the 2013 siege. (Sheila Covarrubias)