Roberto Ibáñez, the Deputy Minister of Sports, carried out a technical agenda in Manabí together with Maximiliano Núñez, Zonal 4 Coordinator for Education, Sports, and Culture. The visit aimed to strengthen sports infrastructure, support high-performance athletes, and coordinate actions with local authorities.
In Chone, officials reviewed progress on the construction of new stands at Los Chonanas stadium. This historic venue was damaged by the 2016 earthquake. The project has reached 30% completion with an investment of USD 851,403.64 for execution and USD 38,870.46 for oversight. The improvements are expected to benefit over 76,000 residents.
The construction includes renewed enclosures, seating for 3,000 spectators, universal accessibility features, six restroom facilities, and 59 lighting points. Ibáñez said: “It is important to recover emblematic sports spaces to strengthen both formative and competitive practice.”
In Portoviejo, the Deputy Minister met with athletes from the High Performance Plan—Helen Sánchez, Xiomara Bowen, Dyander Pacho, and Maybelline Menéndez—to discuss challenges in high-performance sports and state support for those representing Ecuador internationally.
The day ended with a coordination meeting attended by Javier Pincay (mayor of Portoviejo), Juan Carlos Basurto (president of Manabí Sports Federation), and other institutional representatives. At this meeting they highlighted Portoviejo’s designation as “American City of Sport 2025,” which positions the city as a regional reference point.
Plans were also discussed to improve Reales Tamarindos stadium. Ibáñez stated: “We will work together with the municipality, Sports Federation and private companies to improve and adapt this emblematic venue.”
“The National Government and the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture reiterate their commitment to promote works, programs and actions that strengthen sport, dignify public spaces and support the growth of our athletes throughout the country,” according to a statement from government authorities.
