First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos led the unveiling of the Centro de Turismo Intramuros on Sunday, June 9, as she underscored the importance of the Philippines’ storied past days before it marks its 126th Independence Day.
First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos leads the launching of Centro de Turismo together with Tourism Secretary Maria Esperanza Christina Garcia Frasco and Intramuros Administrator Joan Padilla on Sunday, June 9, 2024. (Photo from the Intramuros Administration)
“I hope everyone will appreciate the rich history of Intramuros,” she said in an Instagram post on Monday, June 10.
In her message during the launch, which was also attended by Senate President Francis Escudero, Marcos championed the need for Filipinos to understand their history through the preservation and restoration of historic sites.
“The Intramuros Tourist Center symbolizes our gateway to the past. It’s a celebration of rich history and a testament to our collective identity,” she said, as quoted by the Intramuros Administration.
The First Lady expressed hope that Centro de Turismo will ignite a deeper understanding of the country’s history past and empower people to preserve the country’s cultural treasures.
In a statement from the Intramuros Administration, it described the new tourism hub as a solidification of the Walled City of Manila’s “position as a premier historical, cultural, and tourism destination.”
The center itself will house a museum that will feature “an immersive experience into the rich history, vibrant present, and sustainable future of Intramuros.”
The museum will have exhibits and historical artifacts about Intramuros’ pre-colonial roots and its role as a Spanish colonial center.
It will also show the devastation of World War II, the city’s ongoing revitalization, and its future development.
Intramuros Administrator Joan Padilla sees the center as an embodiment of the ideals of St. Ignatius, who championed education and exploration.
“This center is not just a place to visit; it is a gateway to understanding and appreciating our rich past and the dynamic possibilities of our future. We see this center opening up new opportunities for Intramuros as a prime tourism destination,” Padilla, a lawyer, said.
The center is housed at the former site of San Ignacio Church, which was destroyed during the Battle of Manila in 1945 but was one of the seven original churches of Intramuros that was renowned for its Neoclassical architecture and intricate woodwork.
Centro de Turismo Intramuros, which will also serve as a versatile events space, will open its doors to the public starting June 12.
It will operate daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with free entrance for all.