MANILA, Philippines—The Manila government filed charges against Jelsie Construction and Supply, the contractor involved in the illegal demolition of the Rizal Avenue Sports Athletics Complex (RASAC) in Santa Cruz.

Mayor Isko Moreno on Wednesday said the contractor had no authority from City Hall to tear down the century-old facility, which had long served as a community hub, disaster response center, and public recreation site. The mayor stressed that the demolition and ongoing construction of a new multi-purpose building proceeded without any permits, clearances, or coordination with the local government.

“I am instituting this criminal complaint as the local chief executive of the country’s capital city. This is not only about protecting property but protecting the welfare of our citizens,” Domagoso said. “We cannot allow private contractors to demolish and build without the city’s authority, especially on facilities critical to disaster preparedness and public service.”

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Jelsie Construction will face multiple violations, including malicious mischief, unlawful demolition without a building permit, and unauthorized destruction of government facilities.

On Aug. 21, 2025, Domagoso made the rounds, and residents had alerted him to the demolition. By the time he arrived at the site, the facility had been torn down. Certifications from City Hall offices confirmed there were no demolition, building, or zoning permits issued to Jelsie Construction.