The Cebu Provincial Engineering Office (PEO) launched a P1 million renovation project on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, to replace the water-damaged ceiling of the Capitol Social Hall. Contractor 5GG has begun removing old ceiling materials and will install quarter-inch marine plywood after roof hole repairs are completed, according to PEO assistant Noel Gurrea.
Scope of Work and Contractor Selection
Gurrea said contractors are chosen based on their track record and existing projects within the Capitol complex. The work includes roof repairs and a full ceiling replacement to address structural deterioration and moisture damage previously identified by the Provincial General Services Office (PGSO).
The project received clearance from the province’s heritage consultant to preserve the building’s historical integrity. Officials are expediting work to complete it before Cebu Province’s founding anniversary celebrations in August, despite a two-to-three-month projected timeline.
Leak History and Decision for Full Replacement
PGSO head Maria Teresa Alcos noted that ceiling leaks were first observed during the rainy season, and a portion of the ceiling had collapsed. The PGSO initially requested repairs for only about 20 percent of the ceiling, focusing on leak areas. However, after a PEO assessment, officials decided to replace the entire ceiling for uniform appearance and to prevent future issues.
“The ceilings have deteriorated because water entered through a flooded section of the roof,” Alcos said. “The water penetrated the basement, and inspections by the GSO maintenance division showed that the ceiling joists had absorbed moisture.”
The existing heavy hardiflex ceiling boards, which absorb moisture, will be replaced with lightweight quarter-inch marine plywood, which resists water damage.
Heritage and Timeline
Both the roofing repairs and ceiling replacement were approved by the Capitol’s heritage consultant to ensure the building’s historical integrity is preserved. Alcos and Gurrea confirmed that work is being expedited to accommodate anniversary-related activities, with the goal of finishing before August.
