ZAMBOANGA CITY — A P33.4-million two-storey convention center with more than 500 seating capacity is now under construction at this city's most popular site -- the Paseo del Mar.

The Paseo del Mar, which is located at the back of the historic Our Lady of the Pillar Shrine, is the newest tourist attraction of local residents as well as visitors of this southern port city.

City Engineer Luis Despalo said the construction of the multi-purpose convention center started last month and is projected to be operational next year.

"Actually, the project's duration as far as construction is concerned is one year. However, with the emphasis of Mayor Celso Lobregat to hasten all projects at hand, we are positive that the construction will finish earlier," Despalo said.

He said the convention center will have a touch of Spanish-American architectural design since it is within the Heritage Zone.

He said the center has mini-theater type audio-visual room that can house about 50 persons, convenient for film showing and other gathering where visual presentation is a highlight.

On top of that, he said it will also have a multi-purpose function room and one concession designed for fine dining services.

Assistant City Administrator Elmeir Apolinario said the convention center will be under the care of the City Administrator's Office as far as maintenance and operation are concerned.

"As soon as it will be operational, it will be opened for public booking where they can hold conferences, trainings and other gatherings," Apolinario said. (PNA)

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