A section of SM Seaside Cebu Arena’s ceiling system triggered safety concerns that led to the cancellation of LANY’s sold-out concert on Thursday night, Nov. 12, following reports of falling steel debris.
Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival said Friday, Nov. 13, that initial inspections by the city’s Office of the Building Official (OBO), Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and Bureau of Fire Protection identified the affected section.
The three offices will conduct further technical assessments to determine the necessary corrective measures before the arena resumes affected activities.
“Public safety remains our foremost priority,” Archival said, thanking Live Nation Philippines and the venue for their cooperation.
SM Seaside Cebu Arena said its engineering team, independent structural consultants and government representatives conducted an overnight inspection. Initial findings showed that the concern was limited to a specific ceiling section, while the main structure remained sound.
“Under OBO oversight, accredited third-party specialists are carrying out targeted maintenance and enhancement works to ensure compliance ahead of upcoming events,” the arena’s management said.
The venue will coordinate with SM Tickets and Live Nation Philippines on ticketing procedures and other arrangements.
Live Nation canceled the performance hours before its scheduled start after identifying significant roofing safety concerns following sound check.
LANY frontman Paul Klein said he learned about the incident involving four-foot steel debris while leaving his hotel for the arena. He said the band had not received confirmation on when it would be safe to enter the venue.
“I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if someone was seriously injured at one of our shows,” Klein said in an Instagram Story.
He apologized to fans and expressed hope that the band could return to Cebu, ending his message with “Mahal kita forever.”
Live Nation advised ticket holders to request refunds through the SM Tickets Refund Portal or by emailing customercare@smtickets.com with the subject line “Refund Request: LANY: soft world tour in Cebu.”
Hundreds of fans had already gathered at the arena when organizers announced the cancellation. LANY, composed of Klein and drummer Jake Goss, performed its first Cebu show at the venue on Nov. 6.
Organizers also canceled the band’s scheduled Nov. 14 performance at Crocodile Park Concert Grounds in Davao due to production and safety concerns.
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