Cebu skateboarders push for city’s first skatepark with mayor’s support

Can Cebu’s skateboarders and BMX riders finally have a place they can truly call home?

That question may soon find an answer as the Skate Association of Cebu (SAC) Inc. and other local skateboarding stakeholders push for the construction of the city’s first-ever public skatepark,  a long-time dream that took a major step forward after members met with Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival on Oct. 8 to present their proposal.

In a Facebook post by Mayor Archival, he confirmed the meeting, saying he met with the group to discuss potential locations for the skatepark.

“Nalipay ko sa ilang kadasig nga magtukod ug skatepark para sa atong kabatan-onan,” Archival said. 

“The city fully supports initiatives that promote sports, creativity, and community engagement.”

According to SAC, the proposed skatepark aims to give skateboarders and BMX riders a safe, inclusive space to practice without fear of being asked to leave public areas or facing misunderstandings from authorities.

In an exclusive interview with SAC president Peter Julius Theodor Lindgreen, he said the project has been a long-time dream for the local skate community. 

“Since we started skateboarding, we have long wished for a community skatepark–a place where we can develop our skills, enjoy ourselves, and feel respected,” Lindgreen said.

He emphasized that many young skaters currently face risks from skating in streets and public spaces not designed for the activity. Some have even encountered harassment or confiscation of equipment due to the absence of designated areas. 

“Without safe and legal spaces, skateboarders will find ways to play in public areas, which exposes both skaters and the public to risks,” he noted.

Beyond safety, Lindgreen said the skatepark would serve as a venue for discipline, creativity, and physical fitness while steering youth away from negative influences. 

He also pointed out the park’s potential to boost Cebu’s image as a youth-friendly and culturally vibrant city. 

“A skatepark could attract competitions, workshops, and events that would benefit nearby businesses and provide opportunities for local employment and tourism,” he said.

To ensure safety and accessibility, SAC plans to include adequate security, first aid facilities, good lighting, and well-designed surfaces. 

Lindgreen said they also want the space to be inclusive, catering to skaters of all genders, ages, and abilities. 

“We’re eager to involve stakeholders–local government, community leaders, skaters, and BMX riders–in the design process to make sure it meets everyone’s needs,” he said.

While Mayor Archival and Councilor Jun Alcover have expressed support, the project still awaits official approval of a site and funding.

Lindgreen said the group hopes the city government can help by allocating land, co-funding construction, and assisting with infrastructure and policy coordination.

“We have presented our proposal to Mayor Archival,” Lindgreen said. 

“The ball is now in the hands of the local government. We are willing to assist in any way we can to make this project a reality.”

If approved, the skatepark would not only give Cebuano skateboarders and BMX riders a long-awaited home but also strengthen the city’s growing reputation as a hub for urban sports and creativity.