Proving that it's not just the business center of the country, the city of Makati has been ramping up its efforts in further boosting its tourism and cultural heritage by the implementation of various programs and initiatives in the month of January.
First, Makati's International Relations Department launched a study to redevelop the tunnels of Fort Bonifacio to honor Makati's military heritage and promote it as a historical attraction.
Together with other city government officials and conservation groups, they went to the Museo El Deposito in San Juan City to see the possible strategy for the preservation and improvement of the said tunnels.
The Makati City LGU, spearheaded by its Museum and Cultural Affairs Office, then led the creation of the Makati Poblacion Heritage District Master Redevelopment Plan, which will set the design of the 6.6-hectare area's streetscapes, parks and public spaces and define guidelines for future developments in the area to recognize and promote Makati's rich cultural heritage found mostly in the historic core of Poblacion.
At the same time, the city's Cultural Mapping and Historical Research program was officially launched on the same day of the mappers' orientation.
The city government explained that the program aims to identify and document Makati's cultural assets and update and align its historical narrative.
All the 33 barangays are actively involved with the University of Makati (UMak) College of Arts and Letters as its academic partner.
In November of last year, the city was awarded during the 1st Philippine Tourism Excellence Awards as one of the best cities in the Philippines that are pursuing sustainable tourism.
Makati City won in the local government category for its valuable contribution to sustainable urban tourism development.
"Local governance is essential for sustainable urban tourism development. The city government can help protect the local environment, create opportunities for locals to benefit from increased tourism revenue, and contribute to long-term economic growth. We will continue to work hard to provide tourists with premium hospitality, entertainment options, and cultural attractions,” Makati City Mayor Abby Binay said in a statement.
Binay underscored the importance of having a strong and meaningful relationship among the local government, business owners, residents, and other stakeholders as they must also develop and enforce strong regulations that promote responsible behavior among tourists, and invest in infrastructure projects to improve the quality of life for residents, workers, and tourists.
In September, the city government launched its newest tourism-oriented service to the public that aims to increase the number of people visiting the city’s tourist spots.
According to the city government, MakaTurismo was created to attract the public and tourists to visit the city and establishments that have been designated as heritage sites.
Those who want to know more about Makati City’s tourist destinations may visit www.makaturismo.ph. The site also offers recommendations for accommodation, and free walking tours, Tuesday to Sunday, to the St. Alphonsus Mary de Liguori Church-Garden Way of the Cross, Central Business District, Poblacion Heritage Sites, Salcedo Community Market, and Legazpi Sunday Market.