USC students run Cebu’s first skate park as thesis

THE first skate park in Cebu is run by six undergraduate students taking up BS Entrepreneurship at the University of San Carlos.

Gierome Magnanao, Bernadette Meñoso, Neslene Mendoza, Pero Degula, Maria Teresa Ramirez and Catherine Blanco founded Concave Skatepark on Nov. 7, 2011. They are currently on their third semester of completing their thesis by running Concave Skate Park.

They named the park after the shape of a skateboard deck. The business started from an idea presented by assistant manager Meñoso. It was proposed to the school, defended and eventually approved to become the first skate park in Cebu.

Magnanao, who serves as the park’s manager, said they are not just providing an accessible location for skaters but they’re keeping them away from vices.

“We are a drug-free community,” said Ramirez, the human resource officer. He said they support skaters who need money by allowing them to teach. The tutee pays P100 per hour.

The team said maintenance is “an ongoing challenge,” especially when it comes to
funding.

They are renting a lot on Gen. Echavez St. in Cebu City. Carlos Castro, a friend of the students, acts as investor and consultant.

Support

Magnanao said that aside from assisting in the construction of the area, they funded from their own pockets the initial investment. They said they are able to survive in business because of the support of their families and friends, daily influx of skaters and events hosted by T-shirt and shoe brands like Kamesen, Supra, Blood Red, Vans and DC.

The park charges P60 per day as entrance fee.

Magnanao said it may take up to five years to regain their capital. He said they plan to expand outside the province. Concave Skate Park is open from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. (JSL)