Philippine President Benigno Aquino on July 21 presided over the opening of what is billed as the world's largest indoor stadium, in outlying Bocaue town.

The arena is expected to serve as a major venue for concerts and sport events (Photo: philstar.com)

The 175 million USD Philippine Arena, which can seat 55,000 people, is expected to serve as a major venue for concerts and sport events as well as gatherings for its owners, the Iglesia ni Cristo (Church of Christ) sect.

With a floor area of about 99,000 sq. m and a height of 62m, the facility has its construction kicked off in July 2011 and completed this month, joining to mark the centennial of the Iglesia ni Cristo on July 27.

Aquino hailed the structure as the largest domed arena in the world, saying its capacity is even double that of the Staples Centre in Los Angeles, a major sporting and entertainment venue.

The builders said the arena will be resistant to earthquakes which are a frequent threat to the country sitting on the Pacific Ring of Fire.

(Source: VNA)