ORMOC CITY — Expanding its athletic infrastructure and sports tourism portfolio, the City Government of Ormoc held the inaugural ceremony for a new climbing wall area and the upcoming development of a dedicated karate facility at the historic Dominador Tan Ruins in Barangay Cogon on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
Led by local executive officials, national sports leaders, and martial arts governing bodies, the development project converts the heritage site into a multi-use outdoor sports and eco-tourism destination.
Pioneering A Regional Sports Tourist Destination
Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez highlighted that the strategic transformation of the Dominador Tan Ruins aligns with the city's broader vision to pair historical preservation with active lifestyle spaces. The city aims to position the facility as a premier sports tourism destination attracting regional climbers, martial artists, and adventure enthusiasts across Eastern Visayas.
Leyte 4th District Representative Richard I. Gomez emphasized the local administration's continuous drive to expand sports infrastructure, ensuring Ormoc's youth have access to modern facilities that foster athletic discipline, health, and competitive excellence.
PSC Endorsement And Karate Pilipinas Support
Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman John Patrick "Pato" Gregorio reaffirmed the national sports agency's commitment to supporting Ormoc’s athletic development. Supporting the city's bid to become a major Regional Sports Training Hub, Chairman Gregorio commended Ormoc’s grassroots initiatives.
To further empower local martial artists, the Karate Pilipinas Sports Federation announced it will donate official karate mats to the new facility. Additionally, the federation pledged to bring members of the Philippine National Karate Team to Ormoc to conduct specialized training camps, clinics, and sparring sessions for local athletes and coaches.
