Tourism Dept. Plans to Redevelop Intramuros

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is finalizing a proposal to revive the walled city of Intramuros as a monument to the Hispanic period of Philippine history, director for public affairs and advocacy, Czarina Zara Loyola, has said.

The plan, spearheaded by tourism Assistant Secretary Gwen Javier and Undersecretary Alma Jimenez, envisions the five-hectare Intramuros as a historical and cultural center that will promote Manila as a premier tourist destination.

Loyola said the department plans to fix Intramuros’ longtime problems to make the city a walking tourist site, just like Vigan in Ilocos Sur province.

She said to make Intramuros accessible, the department plans to improve the sidewalks that are obstructed by posts and have varying curb heights, put up signs that would guide tourists in navigating the area, and implement an appropriate traffic plan that would address the volume and schedule of traffic, as well as parking.

The proposal also includes the restoration of the Maetranza Park to become a venue for cultural shows, concerts, and vintage car shows.

The department is also eyeing a public-private partnership (PPP) for holding events and concerts at the Clamshell Tent, situated along Anda St., Loyola said.

Meanwhile, to address complaints on the overcharging of the “kalesa” operators, she said, “We are studying the possibility of tapping Beep to work with us, para sigurado na yung kukunin sa turista ay yung halagang dapat lang kunin sa kanila (to ensure that the tourists will be charged the right amount).”

Beep cards, provided by AF Payments Inc. (AFPI), are currently accepted at Light Rail Transit (LRT) Lines 1 and 2 and Metro Rail Transit (MRT) 3.

If the partnership between the DOT and AFPI pushes through, tourists can easily get around Manila as they could ride the train, public bus and other modes of transportation in Metro Manila using the electronic smart card, Loyola said.

Tourism Seretary Wanda Teo is set to give an update on Tuesday regarding the rehabilitation plans for Intramuros. (PNA) CVL/JGA/SSC