If you grew up in Metro Manila, chances are you’ve heard the name Cuneta Astrodome at least once. Maybe your favorite basketball team played there. Maybe you saw your idol perform on stage. Or maybe you just passed by it on the way to the mall, not knowing the stories that happened inside. Cuneta Astrodome

This place is more than just an indoor arena. It’s a part of Filipino culture, a piece of history, and a venue that holds decades of unforgettable moments.

The Location That Connects Everything
Cuneta Astrodome is located in Pasay City, along Roxas Boulevard — one of the busiest roads in Metro Manila. That makes it super accessible to locals and tourists alike. It’s close to shopping centers like SM Mall of Asia, near the airport, and just minutes away from the beautiful Manila Bay.

Its location is one of its biggest advantages. People from Manila, Makati, Las Piñas, and even Quezon City can get there easily. Whether you ride a jeepney, a bus, or take the MRT, reaching Cuneta Astrodome is always convenient.

A Classic Arena With a Rich History
The Cuneta Astrodome officially opened its doors in 1993, named after Mayor Pablo Cuneta, who served Pasay for several decades. You might recognize the surname — yes, he’s the father of actress and singer Sharon Cuneta. The arena was built during a time when indoor sports venues were just starting to boom in the Philippines. At that time, it became one of the most modern and functional arenas in the country.

With a seating capacity of around 12,000 people, it became the perfect venue for all kinds of big events. Not too massive, but not too small either. Just the right size for a loud, passionate crowd.

The Home of Philippine Basketball
If there’s one thing Cuneta Astrodome is most known for, it’s basketball. This arena served as the homecourt of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) during the 1990s and early 2000s. That period is often seen as one of the golden eras of Philippine basketball.

The cheers, the chants, the rivalries — fans filled the seats, wore their team’s jerseys, and screamed their lungs out during games. Whether it was the classic rivalry between Ginebra and Purefoods or the rise of new stars, many unforgettable PBA moments happened right here. Ask any longtime fan, and they’ll tell you stories of last-second shots, dramatic overtimes, and championship parades that began at this very arena.

Even today, many local leagues and collegiate tournaments still choose Cuneta Astrodome as their go-to venue.

Music, Entertainment, and So Much More
Cuneta Astrodome isn’t just for sports. It has also hosted concerts, pageants, school events, and even political rallies. Some of the biggest names in Original Pilipino Music (OPM) have performed there, as well as a few international acts over the years.

Graduation ceremonies, church gatherings, trade expos — the variety of events held in this dome proves its flexibility. It’s not a fancy high-tech arena, but its charm lies in how accessible and community-friendly it is.

The Vibe Inside
What makes Cuneta Astrodome special is the vibe. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s full of energy. There’s something about the way the sound bounces off the walls, or how the crowd feels so close to the action. Unlike newer arenas that feel cold and too polished, Cuneta feels more personal. More connected. It’s the kind of place where every seat feels like a good one.

People who have been there don’t just remember the event — they remember the feeling. The excitement, the tension, the celebration. That emotional connection is what makes it stand out.

Still Standing, Still Relevant
Today, newer arenas like the Mall of Asia Arena or the Araneta Coliseum might steal the spotlight. But Cuneta Astrodome continues to serve the Pasay community and the rest of Metro Manila. It still hosts regular events and remains a go-to venue for organizers who want a crowd that’s close to the stage and full of spirit.

While some structures fade into the background with time, Cuneta Astrodome holds on. It’s like an old friend — maybe not the flashiest one, but always there when you need them.

Final Thoughts
Cuneta Astrodome may not be the newest or the biggest, but it has something more valuable — heart. It has witnessed championship games, emotional concerts, and personal milestones. It has become a place of connection, celebration, and community.

If you ever pass by Roxas Boulevard in Pasay, take a moment to look at the Cuneta Astrodome and remember that this dome isn’t just made of concrete and steel. It’s built with stories, cheers, applause, and dreams.