As part of the periodic rehabilitation project being undertaken by the Intramuros Administration (IA) and the Department of Tourism (DOT), Maestranza was launched last June 2010.
The 8,200 sq. m. fort in Intramuros has 43 chambers, four of which will be historical museums to display two World War ll canons and artifacts. The rest of the chambers will be converted to function halls, office spaces and leased to retail specialists. The 250-million peso Japanese government-funded rehabilitation project aims to draw tourists when it opens in June 2011.
Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim said, “The Intramuros rehabilitation will answer the need in Manila for showcase of history. It will provide an area for tourists to walk around next to Pasig River. The chambers can be leased as shops, restaurants, gift shops, as well as display artifacts. River boats can dock in front of Maestranza.” Maestranza, made up of high-ceilinged red brick chambers and adobe blocks, was part of the ruined fort destroyed by the Americans during the war time to gain access to Pasig River.
When fully completed, the stretch of Maestranza fort’s roof will be used as promenade, overlooking Pasig River which is also being promoted via alternative cruise tour packages. Some of the packages’ points of interests include Luneta, Intramuros and Binondo.
Architect Augusto P. Rustia, chairman of the Maestranza Restoration Committee, led the rehabilitation project which was drawn six years ago and made sure that their team rebuilds the structure based on the original foundation. About 65 percent of the project has been completed already.
“We wanted it to look very much the same as before,” said Rustia in following the original Spanish design and materials of the 3,000 sqm. fortification. Rustia said the project will capitalize on the place’s historical value but will also be commercially viable. Some of the chambers will be leased for medium-sized meetings, seminars, themed and special events. For cocktails, around 20-30 pax can be accommodated per chamber.
Trade industry leaders welcomed the ongoing Walled City improvement. Aside from getting a good dose of its former grandeur, Intramuros will be rid of unsightly squatters and other eye sores. Maestranza will be a good link to the rest of the Walled City Walking Tour and is a good catalyst in promoting the place as both historical and cultural destination, said Cesar Cruz, President of Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) and general manager of TRIPS Travel Inc.
“Intramuros is the center piece of Old Manila showcasing Spanish influence. As a key attraction in the country’s capital city it strengthens our cultural ties with Spain.” He added, “If Maestranza will be promoted alongside with Fort Santiago, Casa Manila, the Manila Cathedral, the Light and Sound Museum, the cluster will present additional activities right in the heart of Manila.”
John Paul Cabalza, Philippine Travel Agencies Association (PTAA) vice-president for inbound and managing director of Cencorp Tarvel, Inc. said, “We usually combine Intramuros with other destination in Manila City.” Maestranza will add up to a good mix of tourist spots within the Walled City like Fort Santiago, the Light and Sound Museum, the Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church, Bahay Tsinoy, among others.
The continuous development of Intramuros, including the rehabilitation of Maestranza, further boost the historical factor of the place, said Cabalza.
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Tags: adobe blocks, historical museums, restoration committee, world war ll