I have always dreamed that the San Ignacio will be fully restored to its former glory... as a church.

I have always dreamed that the San Ignacio will be fully restored to its former glory... as a church.

I have always dreamed that the San Ignacio will be fully restored to its former glory... as a church.


They cannot even restore and clean San Agustin properly so I am afraid your dream may not become a reality anytime soon.

I have always dreamed that the San Ignacio will be fully restored to its former glory... as a church.


They cannot even restore and clean San Agustin properly so I am afraid your dream may not become a reality anytime soon.

Colegio de San Juan de Letran-Manila
Taken June 6, 2008

http://images.icarusrising.multiply.com/image/5/photos/56/orig/2/IMGP2732.JPG?et=6R21ViSlpINJTpL4%2BmMeiA&nmid=99809018

http://images.icarusrising.multiply.com/image/6/photos/56/orig/1/IMGP2730.JPG?et=Fa6%2CGgSohwZKSRWrBEvuXQ&nmid=99809018

History according to Wikipedia:

The name San Juan de Letran is derived from the Basilica of St. John Lateran in Rome, considered as the Mother Church of Christendom[1] This name, in turn, was taken from that of the palace known as Palazzo Laterano, beside which it stands at the Piazza San Giovanni or Saint John Square in that SE of Rome location, a former Imperial Palace given by Emperor Constantine to the Pope in the early 4th century, which later served as official papal residence for over a thousand years.


St. John the Baptist building fronting Muralla St. in Intramuros. The building serves as the administration building.The Colegio is owned and administered by priests of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans) of the Philippine Dominican Province. The school has a rich and proud history and holds the distinction of having produced Philippine presidents, revolutionary heroes, poets, legislators, members of the clergy, jurists, and is the only Philippine school that has produced a Catholic Saint that actually lived and studied inside its original campus. The campus contains two statues, representing the two foremost alumni in the fields of secular and religious service: former Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon and Vietnamese Saint Vicente Liem de la Paz.

Originally founded by Don Juan Geromino Guerrero in 1620, a retired Spanish officer, in Intramuros as Colegio de Niños Huerfanos de San Juan de Letran. The school was designed to educate and mold orphans to be good Christian citizens.

Around the same time, Diego de Santa Maria, O.P. established Colegio de Huerfanos de San Pedro y San Pablo. As Don Guerrero grew old, the two schools were fused together, taking the name of Colegio de San Juan de Letran. In 1623, King Philip IV of Spain placed Letran under Royal protection.


St. Thomas Building, which houses the library, the media center and TV studios.After 60 years, Letran was declared an ecclesiastical college. A royal decree on May 1865 pronounced Letran as a "College of the First Class". Around this time, Letran was still a school exclusively for boys.

During World War II, Letran suspended classes, and the school was changed into a Japanese garrison. After the war, Letran resumed operations. Several new construction projects were inaugurated to replace the old structures wrecked by the war.

The school began accepting female students in its college department in the 1970s while the grade school and high school departments started accepting female enrollees in June 2005.

Letran has programs in business education, humanities, information technology, communication arts and basic education, and has successful athletic programs, particularly in basketball, football, volleyball, taekwondo, and tennis. Through the centuries Letran has produced numerous athletes that have donned the national colors (especially in basketball) in international events like the Olympics, Asian Games, Southeast Asian Games, Jones Cup, and FIBA World Championship.

In October 2007, two former Letran administrators were among the 498 Spanish martyrs beatified by Pope Benedict XVI. They are Fr. Jesus Villaverde Andres, OP, a former rector; and Fr. Antonio Varona Ortega, OP, a former professor and moderator of the NCAA Philippines.

Colegio de San Juan de Letran-Manila
Taken June 6, 2008

http://images.icarusrising.multiply.com/image/5/photos/56/orig/2/IMGP2732.JPG?et=6R21ViSlpINJTpL4%2BmMeiA&nmid=99809018

http://images.icarusrising.multiply.com/image/6/photos/56/orig/1/IMGP2730.JPG?et=Fa6%2CGgSohwZKSRWrBEvuXQ&nmid=99809018

History according to Wikipedia:

The name San Juan de Letran is derived from the Basilica of St. John Lateran in Rome, considered as the Mother Church of Christendom[1] This name, in turn, was taken from that of the palace known as Palazzo Laterano, beside which it stands at the Piazza San Giovanni or Saint John Square in that SE of Rome location, a former Imperial Palace given by Emperor Constantine to the Pope in the early 4th century, which later served as official papal residence for over a thousand years.


St. John the Baptist building fronting Muralla St. in Intramuros. The building serves as the administration building.The Colegio is owned and administered by priests of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans) of the Philippine Dominican Province. The school has a rich and proud history and holds the distinction of having produced Philippine presidents, revolutionary heroes, poets, legislators, members of the clergy, jurists, and is the only Philippine school that has produced a Catholic Saint that actually lived and studied inside its original campus. The campus contains two statues, representing the two foremost alumni in the fields of secular and religious service: former Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon and Vietnamese Saint Vicente Liem de la Paz.

Originally founded by Don Juan Geromino Guerrero in 1620, a retired Spanish officer, in Intramuros as Colegio de Niños Huerfanos de San Juan de Letran. The school was designed to educate and mold orphans to be good Christian citizens.

Around the same time, Diego de Santa Maria, O.P. established Colegio de Huerfanos de San Pedro y San Pablo. As Don Guerrero grew old, the two schools were fused together, taking the name of Colegio de San Juan de Letran. In 1623, King Philip IV of Spain placed Letran under Royal protection.


St. Thomas Building, which houses the library, the media center and TV studios.After 60 years, Letran was declared an ecclesiastical college. A royal decree on May 1865 pronounced Letran as a "College of the First Class". Around this time, Letran was still a school exclusively for boys.

During World War II, Letran suspended classes, and the school was changed into a Japanese garrison. After the war, Letran resumed operations. Several new construction projects were inaugurated to replace the old structures wrecked by the war.

The school began accepting female students in its college department in the 1970s while the grade school and high school departments started accepting female enrollees in June 2005.

Letran has programs in business education, humanities, information technology, communication arts and basic education, and has successful athletic programs, particularly in basketball, football, volleyball, taekwondo, and tennis. Through the centuries Letran has produced numerous athletes that have donned the national colors (especially in basketball) in international events like the Olympics, Asian Games, Southeast Asian Games, Jones Cup, and FIBA World Championship.

In October 2007, two former Letran administrators were among the 498 Spanish martyrs beatified by Pope Benedict XVI. They are Fr. Jesus Villaverde Andres, OP, a former rector; and Fr. Antonio Varona Ortega, OP, a former professor and moderator of the NCAA Philippines.

Thanks Icarus for the nice historical background,unfortunately a lot of students of the school don't realize the rich heritage and history of it.I should know because I spent 10 years of my life in there. Deus Patria Letran,Gracias Icarus:)

Thanks Icarus for the nice historical background,unfortunately a lot of students of the school don't realize the rich heritage and history of it.I should know because I spent 10 years of my life in there. Deus Patria Letran,Gracias Icarus:)

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a89/overtureph/fortsantiago1-1.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a89/overtureph/fortsantiago1-1.jpg

The 2 typical architecture in the country with either the Spanish or Hispano-Filipino style.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3155/2608316357_bdcb9f071a_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3049/2609146004_c09d3b4022_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3295/2609146050_abca904eff_o.jpg

Then and Now: During the Spanish period and after the War of 1945.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3141/2609146124_99f3406bef_o.jpg

The 2 typical architecture in the country with either the Spanish or Hispano-Filipino style.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3155/2608316357_bdcb9f071a_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3049/2609146004_c09d3b4022_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3295/2609146050_abca904eff_o.jpg

Then and Now: During the Spanish period and after the War of 1945.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3141/2609146124_99f3406bef_o.jpg

Great post Animo. What book is it?

Great post Animo. What book is it?

Great post Animo. What book is it?

Intramuros de Manila: de 1571 hasta su destrucción en 1945 / Pedro Ortiz Armengol

:)

Great post Animo. What book is it?

Intramuros de Manila: de 1571 hasta su destrucción en 1945 / Pedro Ortiz Armengol

:)

^^^^ Hey, Animo: glad to see you've obtained a copy of this hard-to-get book! It's a great resource. Does anyone in here know if the colonial Spanish-era structures of San Lazaro still stand today?

^^^^ Hey, Animo: glad to see you've obtained a copy of this hard-to-get book! It's a great resource. Does anyone in here know if the colonial Spanish-era structures of San Lazaro still stand today?

^^^^

I think nothing remains. Even the chapel looks new and bare.

Nasunog pala ito noong 1970s. Sabi ng informant ko, sa side daw and approach ng chapel at madilim daw ito.

^^^^

I think nothing remains. Even the chapel looks new and bare.

Nasunog pala ito noong 1970s. Sabi ng informant ko, sa side daw and approach ng chapel at madilim daw ito.

My suggestion:

Request ambassadors of Latin countries to relocate their embassies to the surrounding areas to create a Hispanic ambiance around Intramuros.

Sounds like a good idea. The only problem is, with the chaotic traffic of Manila and for security reasons, foreign embassies would want the residences of their ambassadors and charge d'affaires closeby. They're probably all in Makati. So, where would the foreign diplomatic community relocate their residences of the embassies and consulates were moved to Intramuros?

My suggestion: hire Disney as a consultant and turn Intramuros into a Disneyland Manila -- with a Philippine theme!!! :lol:

My suggestion:

Request ambassadors of Latin countries to relocate their embassies to the surrounding areas to create a Hispanic ambiance around Intramuros.

Sounds like a good idea. The only problem is, with the chaotic traffic of Manila and for security reasons, foreign embassies would want the residences of their ambassadors and charge d'affaires closeby. They're probably all in Makati. So, where would the foreign diplomatic community relocate their residences of the embassies and consulates were moved to Intramuros?

My suggestion: hire Disney as a consultant and turn Intramuros into a Disneyland Manila -- with a Philippine theme!!! :lol:

Try to restore Intramuros as authentic as possible. BTW may pondo ba diyan? baka Tong-pats lang ni Barbers ang gagawin?

Try to restore Intramuros as authentic as possible. BTW may pondo ba diyan? baka Tong-pats lang ni Barbers ang gagawin?

^^ Di ba sabi dun sa discussion sa Instituto last time, mukha yatang bilyon kung irerevitalize ang buong Intramuros if we are to follow the Madrid model?

^^ Di ba sabi dun sa discussion sa Instituto last time, mukha yatang bilyon kung irerevitalize ang buong Intramuros if we are to follow the Madrid model?

By Constantino Tejero (http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/lifestyle/lifestyle/view/20080714-148251/Intramuros-treasures-seek-safe-haven)
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:16:00 07/14/2008


MANILA, Philippines - A few months after Anna Maria “Bambi” Harper assumed office at the Intramuros Administration in Palacio del Gobernador at Aduana and Gen. Luna St. in Intramuros, Manila, a city councilor came a-visiting.

While looking around at the objects on walls, nooks and crannies, the councilor asked her: “Nagbebenta ba kayo ng antique?”

Stunned silence. Forcing a smile, Harper answered with an embarrassed “No.” That just goes to show that these people do not know what is happening in the IA, she says.

Most people are not aware that IA holds a collection of over 6,000 Philippine antiques ranging from furniture to statuary, from altar frontals to religious paintings, acquired by former Central Bank governor Jaime Laya when he became IA action officer.

The collection is now estimated to be worth half a billion pesos. Most of the pieces are vaulted, others displayed or used in offices, corridors and lobbies of the building, while some 200 items are out on loan.

Museum researcher Armando Arionday, who has been with IA since 1983, has been protecting and clinging to this collection through the years, and for this Harper considers him a hero—intrepid guardian of national heritage.

Still intact

Harper, former Heritage Conservation Society president and Inquirer culture columnist, was installed as IA administrator on March 24 while having a protracted court battle with previous administrator Dominador Ferrer over the defacement of the Walled City.

As soon as she took over IA, she started tackling “an urgent inventory done on all the antique treasures... diligently documented by Laya in the books when he left.” She has itemized every piece lent to the National Museum, Casa Manila, the National Historical Institute, San Agustin Church—even two or three she says the wife of a former official borrowed for a touring exhibit and never returned.

“I want to be sure that the collection Laya so carefully put together is still intact and all accounted for,” she says.

And what goodly treasures there are here! Eyes pop out upon seeing the numerous santos and altarpieces; the innumerable Kristos from the Niño to the Santo Entierro; a life-size Inmaculada Concepcion; a pair of Damian Domingo paintings; a Fabian de la Rosa oil on canvas, “El Transito del Glorioso Patriarca Señor San José”; a primitivist rendition of the Pietà just above a harmonium; cabinets, chairs, and a bone-inlaid commode now worth millions; reredos and retablos of ornately carved Philippine hardwoods.

Precarious state

For lack of space, some of the furniture pieces are piled up in a corridor while many of the smaller icons have been laid on the floor and tabletops. Their deteriorating condition is quite evident, such as the paintings mostly fading, and one monochromatic piece on silk lace now burrowed by insects.

The precarious state these treasures are in is further aggravated by the fact that IA is sharing a floor with the Commission on Elections. And with those perennial troubles the Comelec is having, an accidental or mysterious fire would readily reduce the highly flammable, brittle-with-age pieces to cinders.

“The fire department is just across the street,” Harper says with a wry smile.

That’s why she sees a need for the establishment of a museum to house these fragile treasures. Since over 2,000 items in the collection are ecclesiastical pieces, an ecclesiastical museum is in the works, right where the Clamshell used to be.

An inspired move was to pattern the design of the museum after that of a Spanish-colonial church. Thus, IA is now undertaking a grand project no less than the reconstruction of San Ignacio Church and Convent, based on extant photographs taken before it was bombed out during the war.

As soon as the papers are finalized, the cornerstone will be laid this year. Construction is projected to be finished in two years. And soon we will be seeing these pieces in a house of worship where they, of course, belong.

By Constantino Tejero (http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/lifestyle/lifestyle/view/20080714-148251/Intramuros-treasures-seek-safe-haven)
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:16:00 07/14/2008


MANILA, Philippines - A few months after Anna Maria “Bambi” Harper assumed office at the Intramuros Administration in Palacio del Gobernador at Aduana and Gen. Luna St. in Intramuros, Manila, a city councilor came a-visiting.

While looking around at the objects on walls, nooks and crannies, the councilor asked her: “Nagbebenta ba kayo ng antique?”

Stunned silence. Forcing a smile, Harper answered with an embarrassed “No.” That just goes to show that these people do not know what is happening in the IA, she says.

Most people are not aware that IA holds a collection of over 6,000 Philippine antiques ranging from furniture to statuary, from altar frontals to religious paintings, acquired by former Central Bank governor Jaime Laya when he became IA action officer.

The collection is now estimated to be worth half a billion pesos. Most of the pieces are vaulted, others displayed or used in offices, corridors and lobbies of the building, while some 200 items are out on loan.

Museum researcher Armando Arionday, who has been with IA since 1983, has been protecting and clinging to this collection through the years, and for this Harper considers him a hero—intrepid guardian of national heritage.

Still intact

Harper, former Heritage Conservation Society president and Inquirer culture columnist, was installed as IA administrator on March 24 while having a protracted court battle with previous administrator Dominador Ferrer over the defacement of the Walled City.

As soon as she took over IA, she started tackling “an urgent inventory done on all the antique treasures... diligently documented by Laya in the books when he left.” She has itemized every piece lent to the National Museum, Casa Manila, the National Historical Institute, San Agustin Church—even two or three she says the wife of a former official borrowed for a touring exhibit and never returned.

“I want to be sure that the collection Laya so carefully put together is still intact and all accounted for,” she says.

And what goodly treasures there are here! Eyes pop out upon seeing the numerous santos and altarpieces; the innumerable Kristos from the Niño to the Santo Entierro; a life-size Inmaculada Concepcion; a pair of Damian Domingo paintings; a Fabian de la Rosa oil on canvas, “El Transito del Glorioso Patriarca Señor San José”; a primitivist rendition of the Pietà just above a harmonium; cabinets, chairs, and a bone-inlaid commode now worth millions; reredos and retablos of ornately carved Philippine hardwoods.

Precarious state

For lack of space, some of the furniture pieces are piled up in a corridor while many of the smaller icons have been laid on the floor and tabletops. Their deteriorating condition is quite evident, such as the paintings mostly fading, and one monochromatic piece on silk lace now burrowed by insects.

The precarious state these treasures are in is further aggravated by the fact that IA is sharing a floor with the Commission on Elections. And with those perennial troubles the Comelec is having, an accidental or mysterious fire would readily reduce the highly flammable, brittle-with-age pieces to cinders.

“The fire department is just across the street,” Harper says with a wry smile.

That’s why she sees a need for the establishment of a museum to house these fragile treasures. Since over 2,000 items in the collection are ecclesiastical pieces, an ecclesiastical museum is in the works, right where the Clamshell used to be.

An inspired move was to pattern the design of the museum after that of a Spanish-colonial church. Thus, IA is now undertaking a grand project no less than the reconstruction of San Ignacio Church and Convent, based on extant photographs taken before it was bombed out during the war.

As soon as the papers are finalized, the cornerstone will be laid this year. Construction is projected to be finished in two years. And soon we will be seeing these pieces in a house of worship where they, of course, belong.

^^^^ That Bambi Harper must have a lot of guts and a whole lotta faith after receiving three death threats and pushing for projects wherein fact there's not much cash or investor's money. I really hope her projects push through even though there were other unfinished ones from the previous years.

If I ask my Korean friends regarding the historical importance of Intramuros in Manila, they would say its a golf course. If I ask anyone regarding that there was a 300 year history of Spain in Intramuros in the Philippines, they would say they didn't know Philippines was even a colony. If I ask my cousins and other relatives outside of the Philippines and those who do not live in Manila, they wouldn't know what the hell Intramuros is about...but when they took the Carlos Celdran tour, and bringing my South African partner along, they were all astounded to hear about such wonders, trials, dispair and achievements of the place.

Im going back to Manila in two weeks time with my partner and one of my priorities is to figure out what I can do as a Filipino to help restore Intramuros to its respective glory - but what can I do? find work in the Intramuros Administration?

Meantime i just talk about Intramuros constantly with my friends and spread the history through word of mouth. Thing is, I would love to work for that future five star hotel in Intramuros and develop the tourism in the area when all the clutter of this museum plans and vote-rich slum areas are cleared up.

^^^^ That Bambi Harper must have a lot of guts and a whole lotta faith after receiving three death threats and pushing for projects wherein fact there's not much cash or investor's money. I really hope her projects push through even though there were other unfinished ones from the previous years.

If I ask my Korean friends regarding the historical importance of Intramuros in Manila, they would say its a golf course. If I ask anyone regarding that there was a 300 year history of Spain in Intramuros in the Philippines, they would say they didn't know Philippines was even a colony. If I ask my cousins and other relatives outside of the Philippines and those who do not live in Manila, they wouldn't know what the hell Intramuros is about...but when they took the Carlos Celdran tour, and bringing my South African partner along, they were all astounded to hear about such wonders, trials, dispair and achievements of the place.

Im going back to Manila in two weeks time with my partner and one of my priorities is to figure out what I can do as a Filipino to help restore Intramuros to its respective glory - but what can I do? find work in the Intramuros Administration?

Meantime i just talk about Intramuros constantly with my friends and spread the history through word of mouth. Thing is, I would love to work for that future five star hotel in Intramuros and develop the tourism in the area when all the clutter of this museum plans and vote-rich slum areas are cleared up.

^^^^^Talk is cheap and while they are it, why not fix the premier symbol of Catholicism in the Philippines, San Agustin Church. The church is falling apart, dirty and missing a bell tower. If they want to re-construct a church from the ground up, Im sure they can think of ways to restore San Agustin and keep it properly maintained.:ohno: These people want to revitalize Intramuros and yet ignore the very obvious neglected structures in the area.

^^^^^Talk is cheap and while they are it, why not fix the premier symbol of Catholicism in the Philippines, San Agustin Church. The church is falling apart, dirty and missing a bell tower. If they want to re-construct a church from the ground up, Im sure they can think of ways to restore San Agustin and keep it properly maintained.:ohno: These people want to revitalize Intramuros and yet ignore the very obvious neglected structures in the area.

^^^^
If I ask my Korean friends regarding the historical importance of Intramuros in Manila, they would say its a golf course. If I ask anyone regarding that there was a 300 year history of Spain in Intramuros in the Philippines, they would say they didn't know Philippines was even a colony. If I ask my cousins and other relatives outside of the Philippines and those who do not live in Manila, they wouldn't know what the hell Intramuros is about...but when they took the Carlos Celdran tour, and bringing my South African partner along, they were all astounded to hear about such wonders, trials, dispair and achievements of the place.

.

We can't expect foreign to know and have interest about the history of intramuros, foreign born with a Philippine born parents would surely have no clue and probably would be more interested in the history of the country they were born in. It's always nice for them to look back and atleast know the background of their parent's heritage. As a foreign tourists, it's really just a matter of hobby or added knowledge to find out more about the area and the country they are visiting otherwise, they would probably just be interested to have some relaxing vacation such as beach resorts and such.

It's always nice to have some people like you who has compansion to promote tourism in the Philippines. That surely would help in uplifting the Philippine economy in the long run and once it actually took off successfully.

^^^^
If I ask my Korean friends regarding the historical importance of Intramuros in Manila, they would say its a golf course. If I ask anyone regarding that there was a 300 year history of Spain in Intramuros in the Philippines, they would say they didn't know Philippines was even a colony. If I ask my cousins and other relatives outside of the Philippines and those who do not live in Manila, they wouldn't know what the hell Intramuros is about...but when they took the Carlos Celdran tour, and bringing my South African partner along, they were all astounded to hear about such wonders, trials, dispair and achievements of the place.

.

We can't expect foreign to know and have interest about the history of intramuros, foreign born with a Philippine born parents would surely have no clue and probably would be more interested in the history of the country they were born in. It's always nice for them to look back and atleast know the background of their parent's heritage. As a foreign tourists, it's really just a matter of hobby or added knowledge to find out more about the area and the country they are visiting otherwise, they would probably just be interested to have some relaxing vacation such as beach resorts and such.

It's always nice to have some people like you who has compansion to promote tourism in the Philippines. That surely would help in uplifting the Philippine economy in the long run and once it actually took off successfully.

^^^^ That Bambi Harper must have a lot of guts and a whole lotta faith after receiving three death threats and pushing for projects wherein fact there's not much cash or investor's money. I really hope her projects push through even though there were other unfinished ones from the previous years.

If I ask my Korean friends regarding the historical importance of Intramuros in Manila, they would say its a golf course. If I ask anyone regarding that there was a 300 year history of Spain in Intramuros in the Philippines, they would say they didn't know Philippines was even a colony. If I ask my cousins and other relatives outside of the Philippines and those who do not live in Manila, they wouldn't know what the hell Intramuros is about...but when they took the Carlos Celdran tour, and bringing my South African partner along, they were all astounded to hear about such wonders, trials, dispair and achievements of the place.

Im going back to Manila in two weeks time with my partner and one of my priorities is to figure out what I can do as a Filipino to help restore Intramuros to its respective glory - but what can I do? find work in the Intramuros Administration?

Meantime i just talk about Intramuros constantly with my friends and spread the history through word of mouth. Thing is, I would love to work for that future five star hotel in Intramuros and develop the tourism in the area when all the clutter of this museum plans and vote-rich slum areas are cleared up.

These things happen when you show Manila in the ads and you take the picture every time (makati skycrapers) .

I was talking with an Italian friend and he said that he avoided Manila because it was too dangerous and has nothing to offer .
Btw we are lucky that some foreigners know a little about Vigan since we don't really invest too much in promoting a preserve our country beauties .

^^^^ That Bambi Harper must have a lot of guts and a whole lotta faith after receiving three death threats and pushing for projects wherein fact there's not much cash or investor's money. I really hope her projects push through even though there were other unfinished ones from the previous years.

If I ask my Korean friends regarding the historical importance of Intramuros in Manila, they would say its a golf course. If I ask anyone regarding that there was a 300 year history of Spain in Intramuros in the Philippines, they would say they didn't know Philippines was even a colony. If I ask my cousins and other relatives outside of the Philippines and those who do not live in Manila, they wouldn't know what the hell Intramuros is about...but when they took the Carlos Celdran tour, and bringing my South African partner along, they were all astounded to hear about such wonders, trials, dispair and achievements of the place.

Im going back to Manila in two weeks time with my partner and one of my priorities is to figure out what I can do as a Filipino to help restore Intramuros to its respective glory - but what can I do? find work in the Intramuros Administration?

Meantime i just talk about Intramuros constantly with my friends and spread the history through word of mouth. Thing is, I would love to work for that future five star hotel in Intramuros and develop the tourism in the area when all the clutter of this museum plans and vote-rich slum areas are cleared up.

These things happen when you show Manila in the ads and you take the picture every time (makati skycrapers) .

I was talking with an Italian friend and he said that he avoided Manila because it was too dangerous and has nothing to offer .
Btw we are lucky that some foreigners know a little about Vigan since we don't really invest too much in promoting a preserve our country beauties .

Now vigan is another good place to promote in the Philippines, do they have good beaches in that area? If there is somebody who would invest on that area for resort, they can also tap into promoting Vigan as part of the area's historical landmark.. I've nver been there but I've always wanted to, just never had any chance at all...

Now vigan is another good place to promote in the Philippines, do they have good beaches in that area? If there is somebody who would invest on that area for resort, they can also tap into promoting Vigan as part of the area's historical landmark.. I've nver been there but I've always wanted to, just never had any chance at all...

By Beth Day Romulo (http://www.mb.com.ph/OPED20080717129987.html)

WHEN former Heritage Conservation Society President, UNESCO Commissioner and newspaper columnist, Bambi Harper, was offered the job to become Administrator of the Intramuros Administration, she was not sure whether she wanted to take it. However, it was an appointment made by President Arroyo, and certainly a recognition of her past work conserving historical memorabilia, and she finally accepted and was sworn in by Tourism Secretary Ace Durano on March 24th of this year.


Intramuros is one of the unique "must see" sights for visitors who come to the Philippines – with the remains of the 16th century wall that once separated the Spaniards’ "Walled City" from the native "Indios" who lived outside. Later, as military adviser to President Quezon, General Douglas MacArthur kept office in Intramuros. It is the site of San Agustin Church and the Manila Cathedral, which fortunately was not destroyed during the bombing that occurred during the re-taking of the City, and it houses the old city administration buildings and Palace of the Governors as well as providing space for museums and traditional Filipino restaurants. Fort Santiago, which the Japanese used as a prison camp during the Occupation, is there. And it is home to the Lyceum University, Adamson University, Letran College and Mapua Institute.

"Casa Manila" is a beautifully restored Spanish era house which gives the visitor an intimate sense of what it was like to live within the old Walled City.

But the last time I took visitors from abroad to visit Intramuros last year I was disappointed. Bars and discos has been built in the ancient walls themselves, "informal settlers" filled all empty space, and so many vendors had appropriated the sidewalks that it was almost impossible for the visitors to find a place to walk. Garbage cluttered some streets.

Before she accepted the job of administrator Bambi had already written about the desecreation of the ancient walls, by allowing slapdash construction of commercial establishments built against and on top of them. She had also complained about the confusing parking system and prices charged for visitors by the people who controlled the parking areas, and had a long running battle in the courts with former administrator Dominador Ferrer. "I didn’t want people thinking that I went after his job," Bambi explained in a press conference. "But I have been critical of what was going on in Intramuros, so I decided that the appointment was a challenge." It was the Heritage Conservation Society that filed a case against Ferrer for the construction of non-conforming structures built on the historic walls and fortifications in 1998 as part of a "tourism development project" for Intramuros. The structures, according to the HCS not only defaced but caused serious damage to the walls. As far back as 2003 the schools in Intramuros were protesting to the administrator about the illegal discos and bars next to their buildings which were selling alcoholic drinks to students.

Her agenda, as she takes on the role of administrator, includes the relocation of the informal settlers, closing unlicensed bars and discos, solving the peace and order situation in the district, and holding a series of lectures and seminars on the cultural heritage. One hundred legal vendors will be allowed to remain, but not on the sidewalks.

Then there is the question of the "Treasures of Intramuros" which Jimmy Laya acquired for Intramuros while he served as Action

Officer for the administration, museum artifacts of the period which Laya carefully documented. Mrs. Harper wants an inventory made of the antique treasures, since she discovered pieces of the collection have been loaned out to the National Museum, Casa Manila, the National Historical Institute and other places. She believes that the collection should be intact, and given a permanent home where they can be properly displayed and secured, for public consumption.

In line with her agenda, Mrs. Harper has already met with Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim and Manila Police District Director General Robert Rosales to discuss the peace and order of the Walled City. She has also paid courtesy calls on the Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales and Manila Cathedral rector Msgr. Nestor Cerbo.

As a longtime resident of Intramuros, we, at the Manila Bulletin, wish Mrs. Harper luck in restoring the historical integrity and tourism value of the Walled City. It is the most unusual and historically representative attraction for tourists within the city of Manila.

By Beth Day Romulo (http://www.mb.com.ph/OPED20080717129987.html)

WHEN former Heritage Conservation Society President, UNESCO Commissioner and newspaper columnist, Bambi Harper, was offered the job to become Administrator of the Intramuros Administration, she was not sure whether she wanted to take it. However, it was an appointment made by President Arroyo, and certainly a recognition of her past work conserving historical memorabilia, and she finally accepted and was sworn in by Tourism Secretary Ace Durano on March 24th of this year.


Intramuros is one of the unique "must see" sights for visitors who come to the Philippines – with the remains of the 16th century wall that once separated the Spaniards’ "Walled City" from the native "Indios" who lived outside. Later, as military adviser to President Quezon, General Douglas MacArthur kept office in Intramuros. It is the site of San Agustin Church and the Manila Cathedral, which fortunately was not destroyed during the bombing that occurred during the re-taking of the City, and it houses the old city administration buildings and Palace of the Governors as well as providing space for museums and traditional Filipino restaurants. Fort Santiago, which the Japanese used as a prison camp during the Occupation, is there. And it is home to the Lyceum University, Adamson University, Letran College and Mapua Institute.

"Casa Manila" is a beautifully restored Spanish era house which gives the visitor an intimate sense of what it was like to live within the old Walled City.

But the last time I took visitors from abroad to visit Intramuros last year I was disappointed. Bars and discos has been built in the ancient walls themselves, "informal settlers" filled all empty space, and so many vendors had appropriated the sidewalks that it was almost impossible for the visitors to find a place to walk. Garbage cluttered some streets.

Before she accepted the job of administrator Bambi had already written about the desecreation of the ancient walls, by allowing slapdash construction of commercial establishments built against and on top of them. She had also complained about the confusing parking system and prices charged for visitors by the people who controlled the parking areas, and had a long running battle in the courts with former administrator Dominador Ferrer. "I didn’t want people thinking that I went after his job," Bambi explained in a press conference. "But I have been critical of what was going on in Intramuros, so I decided that the appointment was a challenge." It was the Heritage Conservation Society that filed a case against Ferrer for the construction of non-conforming structures built on the historic walls and fortifications in 1998 as part of a "tourism development project" for Intramuros. The structures, according to the HCS not only defaced but caused serious damage to the walls. As far back as 2003 the schools in Intramuros were protesting to the administrator about the illegal discos and bars next to their buildings which were selling alcoholic drinks to students.

Her agenda, as she takes on the role of administrator, includes the relocation of the informal settlers, closing unlicensed bars and discos, solving the peace and order situation in the district, and holding a series of lectures and seminars on the cultural heritage. One hundred legal vendors will be allowed to remain, but not on the sidewalks.

Then there is the question of the "Treasures of Intramuros" which Jimmy Laya acquired for Intramuros while he served as Action

Officer for the administration, museum artifacts of the period which Laya carefully documented. Mrs. Harper wants an inventory made of the antique treasures, since she discovered pieces of the collection have been loaned out to the National Museum, Casa Manila, the National Historical Institute and other places. She believes that the collection should be intact, and given a permanent home where they can be properly displayed and secured, for public consumption.

In line with her agenda, Mrs. Harper has already met with Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim and Manila Police District Director General Robert Rosales to discuss the peace and order of the Walled City. She has also paid courtesy calls on the Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales and Manila Cathedral rector Msgr. Nestor Cerbo.

As a longtime resident of Intramuros, we, at the Manila Bulletin, wish Mrs. Harper luck in restoring the historical integrity and tourism value of the Walled City. It is the most unusual and historically representative attraction for tourists within the city of Manila.

^^^^We will soon find out if she's all talk and no walk or talk the talk and walk the walk.

By the way, on my last 2 visits to the Philippines I did not bother going to Intramuros. My first visit after a long absence in the country has given me enough reason not to go back for the time being. Walls reeking of urine, garbage, unkept Plaza Roma, dirty San Agustin Church........

^^^^We will soon find out if she's all talk and no walk or talk the talk and walk the walk.

By the way, on my last 2 visits to the Philippines I did not bother going to Intramuros. My first visit after a long absence in the country has given me enough reason not to go back for the time being. Walls reeking of urine, garbage, unkept Plaza Roma, dirty San Agustin Church........

^^well when we were there for Carlos Celdran tour it was raining so hard that we didn't visit all of the places. :devil: we only smelt the rain and wet earth from the ground.

But yeah I do agree with the dirtiness of the place for now i.e. some trash inside the fountain outside Manila Cathedral, homeless looking people on the street washing their clothes. O well, its the same everywhere around the world really i.e. some locals urinate inside the halls of the Pyramids and some parts of Venice actually looked like a Manila canal with trash floating according to my cousin.

Just be thankful that trash and unkempt areas are something the IA can clean up unlike the more serious stuff like the unlicensed bars, discos, illegal construction areas.

Speaking of construction, there was a building in Intramuros that looked like the Ayuntamiento design - it was posted in the Inquirer front page with a photo a few months ago that said it was the Ayuntamiento design but not on the Ayuntamiento original spot.

Does anyone know of such things?

^^well when we were there for Carlos Celdran tour it was raining so hard that we didn't visit all of the places. :devil: we only smelt the rain and wet earth from the ground.

But yeah I do agree with the dirtiness of the place for now i.e. some trash inside the fountain outside Manila Cathedral, homeless looking people on the street washing their clothes. O well, its the same everywhere around the world really i.e. some locals urinate inside the halls of the Pyramids and some parts of Venice actually looked like a Manila canal with trash floating according to my cousin.

Just be thankful that trash and unkempt areas are something the IA can clean up unlike the more serious stuff like the unlicensed bars, discos, illegal construction areas.

Speaking of construction, there was a building in Intramuros that looked like the Ayuntamiento design - it was posted in the Inquirer front page with a photo a few months ago that said it was the Ayuntamiento design but not on the Ayuntamiento original spot.

Does anyone know of such things?

For pure comparisons may I suggest that you compare Metro Manila and the Philippines to a place or area that is better or well kept. Comparing Metro Manila to somewhere that is even worse off or in the same situation will not produce anything constructive. What local authorities need to do is explore areas that are well maintained and learn from it.

The places you mentioned having problems or in situations similar with that of Metro Manila will not make or improve the image and overall surroundings of Metro Manila in the eyes of its citizens and visitors.

For pure comparisons may I suggest that you compare Metro Manila and the Philippines to a place or area that is better or well kept. Comparing Metro Manila to somewhere that is even worse off or in the same situation will not produce anything constructive. What local authorities need to do is explore areas that are well maintained and learn from it.

The places you mentioned having problems or in situations similar with that of Metro Manila will not make or improve the image and overall surroundings of Metro Manila in the eyes of its citizens and visitors.

Just an addendum to my post above, local officals should visit Dubrovnik in Croatia. A walled city which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn from this beautiful city. I have my eyes set on visiting this city someday.

Just an addendum to my post above, local officals should visit Dubrovnik in Croatia. A walled city which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn from this beautiful city. I have my eyes set on visiting this city someday.

unkept

The Oxford Pocket Dictionary of Current English | Date: 2008
un·kept / ˌənˈkept/
• adj.
1. (of a commitment or undertaking) not honored or fulfilled: unkept appointments and broken promises.

2. not tidy or cared for.

© The Oxford Pocket Dictionary of Current English 2008, originally published by Oxford University Press 2008.

unkept

The Oxford Pocket Dictionary of Current English | Date: 2008
un·kept / ˌənˈkept/
• adj.
1. (of a commitment or undertaking) not honored or fulfilled: unkept appointments and broken promises.

2. not tidy or cared for.

© The Oxford Pocket Dictionary of Current English 2008, originally published by Oxford University Press 2008.

Just an addendum to my post above, local officals should visit Dubrovnik in Croatia. A walled city which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn from this beautiful city. I have my eyes set on visiting this city someday.

There were funds from foreign sources for the reconstruction of this city when it was damaged during the 1990s. In comparison, Manila was destroyed in 1945.

Just an addendum to my post above, local officals should visit Dubrovnik in Croatia. A walled city which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn from this beautiful city. I have my eyes set on visiting this city someday.

There were funds from foreign sources for the reconstruction of this city when it was damaged during the 1990s. In comparison, Manila was destroyed in 1945.

Since you brought up that part of Philippine history, let me ask you, Is it safe to say 6 decades later Filipinos still have no clue on how to rebuild or at least clean up the mess of the 2nd World War around Intramuros?:) Are you sure there were not any funds set aside for the reconstruction and clean up of Intramuros, be it local or foreign funded?

Since you brought up that part of Philippine history, let me ask you, Is it safe to say 6 decades later Filipinos still have no clue on how to rebuild or at least clean up the mess of the 2nd World War around Intramuros?:) Are you sure there were not any funds set aside for the reconstruction and clean up of Intramuros, be it local or foreign funded?

B. INTRAMUROS ADMINISTRATION



Appropriations and Obligations
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
(In Thousand Pesos)

Description 2006 2007 2008
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯

New General Appropriations 28,959 30,127 30,479
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
General Fund 30,127 30,479
R.A. No. 9336 As Reenacted 28,959

Automatic Appropriations 1,138 1,151 1,160
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Retirement and Life Insurance Premiums 1,138 1,151 1,160

Budgetary Adjustment(s) 815
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Transfer(s) to:
Overall Savings ( 1,061)
Transfer(s) from:
Miscellaneous Personnel Benefits Fund 1,876
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Total Available Appropriations 30,912 31,278 31,639

Unused Appropriations ( 3)
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Unobligated Allotment ( 3)
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
TOTAL OBLIGATIONS 30,909 31,278 31,639
=============== =============== ===============




Proposed New Appropriations Language
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
For general administration and support, support to operations, and operations, as indicated hereunder...........P 30,479,000
============









New Appropriations, by Program/Project
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Current Operating Expenditures
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Maintenance
and Other
Personal Operating Capital
Services Expenses Outlays Total
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯

A. PROGRAMS

I. General Administration and Support

a. General Administration and Support Services P 6,642,000 P 6,068,000 P 12,710,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Sub-total, General Administration and Support 6,642,000 6,068,000 12,710,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯

II. Support to Operations

a. Planning 986,000 211,000 1,197,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Sub-total, Support to Operations 986,000 211,000 1,197,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯

III. Operations

a. Restoration and Development of Intramuros 6,585,000 9,987,000 16,572,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Sub-total, Operations 6,585,000 9,987,000 16,572,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Total, Programs 14,213,000 16,266,000 30,479,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
TOTAL NEW APPROPRIATIONS P 14,213,000 P 16,266,000 P 30,479,000
=============== =============== ===============



Special Provision(s)
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
1. Appropriations for Programs and Specific Activities. The amounts appropriated herein for the programs of the agency
shall be used specifically for the following activities in the indicated amounts and conditions:




Programs and Activities
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Current Operating Expenditures
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Maintenance
and Other
Personal Operating Capital
Services Expenses Outlays Total
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯

I. General Administration and Support

a. General Administration and Support Services P 6,642,000 P 6,068,000 P 12,710,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
1. General Management and Supervision 6,642,000 6,068,000 12,710,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Sub-total, General Administration and Support 6,642,000 6,068,000 12,710,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯


II. Support to Operations

a. Planning 986,000 211,000 1,197,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Sub-total, Support to Operations 986,000 211,000 1,197,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
III. Operations

a. Restoration and Development of Intramuros 6,585,000 9,987,000 16,572,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
1. Cultural properties conservation 1,452,000 5,376,000 6,828,000

2. Urban planning and community development 1,794,000 181,000 1,975,000

3. Tourism marketing and promotions 2,385,000 3,795,000 6,180,000

4. Subsidiaries management 954,000 635,000 1,589,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Sub-total, Operations 6,585,000 9,987,000 16,572,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
TOTAL PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES P 14,213,000 P 16,266,000 P 30,479,000
=============== =============== ===============

B. INTRAMUROS ADMINISTRATION



Appropriations and Obligations
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
(In Thousand Pesos)

Description 2006 2007 2008
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯

New General Appropriations 28,959 30,127 30,479
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
General Fund 30,127 30,479
R.A. No. 9336 As Reenacted 28,959

Automatic Appropriations 1,138 1,151 1,160
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Retirement and Life Insurance Premiums 1,138 1,151 1,160

Budgetary Adjustment(s) 815
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Transfer(s) to:
Overall Savings ( 1,061)
Transfer(s) from:
Miscellaneous Personnel Benefits Fund 1,876
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Total Available Appropriations 30,912 31,278 31,639

Unused Appropriations ( 3)
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Unobligated Allotment ( 3)
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
TOTAL OBLIGATIONS 30,909 31,278 31,639
=============== =============== ===============




Proposed New Appropriations Language
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
For general administration and support, support to operations, and operations, as indicated hereunder...........P 30,479,000
============









New Appropriations, by Program/Project
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Current Operating Expenditures
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Maintenance
and Other
Personal Operating Capital
Services Expenses Outlays Total
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯

A. PROGRAMS

I. General Administration and Support

a. General Administration and Support Services P 6,642,000 P 6,068,000 P 12,710,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Sub-total, General Administration and Support 6,642,000 6,068,000 12,710,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯

II. Support to Operations

a. Planning 986,000 211,000 1,197,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Sub-total, Support to Operations 986,000 211,000 1,197,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯

III. Operations

a. Restoration and Development of Intramuros 6,585,000 9,987,000 16,572,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Sub-total, Operations 6,585,000 9,987,000 16,572,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Total, Programs 14,213,000 16,266,000 30,479,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
TOTAL NEW APPROPRIATIONS P 14,213,000 P 16,266,000 P 30,479,000
=============== =============== ===============



Special Provision(s)
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
1. Appropriations for Programs and Specific Activities. The amounts appropriated herein for the programs of the agency
shall be used specifically for the following activities in the indicated amounts and conditions:




Programs and Activities
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Current Operating Expenditures
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Maintenance
and Other
Personal Operating Capital
Services Expenses Outlays Total
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯

I. General Administration and Support

a. General Administration and Support Services P 6,642,000 P 6,068,000 P 12,710,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
1. General Management and Supervision 6,642,000 6,068,000 12,710,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Sub-total, General Administration and Support 6,642,000 6,068,000 12,710,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯


II. Support to Operations

a. Planning 986,000 211,000 1,197,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Sub-total, Support to Operations 986,000 211,000 1,197,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
III. Operations

a. Restoration and Development of Intramuros 6,585,000 9,987,000 16,572,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
1. Cultural properties conservation 1,452,000 5,376,000 6,828,000

2. Urban planning and community development 1,794,000 181,000 1,975,000

3. Tourism marketing and promotions 2,385,000 3,795,000 6,180,000

4. Subsidiaries management 954,000 635,000 1,589,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
Sub-total, Operations 6,585,000 9,987,000 16,572,000
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ ¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯
TOTAL PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES P 14,213,000 P 16,266,000 P 30,479,000
=============== =============== ===============

There were funds from foreign sources for the reconstruction of this city when it was damaged during the 1990s. In comparison, Manila was destroyed in 1945.

Post war reconstruction involved war reparations. Was the compensation both from Japan and the US or was it Japan only?

And was the reconstruction only for American era built structures like the Post Office building, provincial capitols etc. Was the Catholic church and other institutions inside Intramuros compensated for the destruction?

Found this:

(War Damage Compensation through Rehabilitation: The Philippine War Damage Commission


http://www.jstor.org/pss/1190168)

There were funds from foreign sources for the reconstruction of this city when it was damaged during the 1990s. In comparison, Manila was destroyed in 1945.

Post war reconstruction involved war reparations. Was the compensation both from Japan and the US or was it Japan only?

And was the reconstruction only for American era built structures like the Post Office building, provincial capitols etc. Was the Catholic church and other institutions inside Intramuros compensated for the destruction?

Found this:

(War Damage Compensation through Rehabilitation: The Philippine War Damage Commission


http://www.jstor.org/pss/1190168)

Post war reconstruction involved war reparations. Was the compensation both from Japan and the US or was it Japan only?

And was the reconstruction only for American era built structures like the Post Office building, provincial capitols etc. Was the Catholic church and other institutions inside Intramuros compensated for the destruction?

Found this:

(War Damage Compensation through Rehabilitation: The Philippine War Damage Commission


http://www.jstor.org/pss/1190168)The Japanese paid war reparations in the 1950's in form of money, loans and properties but it was not actually clear where the government at that time spent the money. Actually, there are some that we still here this past few years like the one sol d by FVR in the Roponggi district in Tokyo(?), etc.
source 1 (http://www.asianperspective.org/articles/v28n2-h.pdf)

The Americans, in the other hand, gave us funds for reconstruction but in exchange to numerous demands like the military bases, bell trade, and the parity rights. If you'll look at the plaques in some Commonwealth buildings like the National Museum and other neo-classical buildings in Manila, you'll see there that the funds for reconstruction came from the People of the US to "aid" us. source 2 (http://www.hq.usace.army.mil/history/Philippines%203.pdf)
wiki (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_Philippines_%281946%E2%80%931965%29)

and no, I don't think the churches were included in reconstruction.

Post war reconstruction involved war reparations. Was the compensation both from Japan and the US or was it Japan only?

And was the reconstruction only for American era built structures like the Post Office building, provincial capitols etc. Was the Catholic church and other institutions inside Intramuros compensated for the destruction?

Found this:

(War Damage Compensation through Rehabilitation: The Philippine War Damage Commission


http://www.jstor.org/pss/1190168)The Japanese paid war reparations in the 1950's in form of money, loans and properties but it was not actually clear where the government at that time spent the money. Actually, there are some that we still here this past few years like the one sol d by FVR in the Roponggi district in Tokyo(?), etc.
source 1 (http://www.asianperspective.org/articles/v28n2-h.pdf)

The Americans, in the other hand, gave us funds for reconstruction but in exchange to numerous demands like the military bases, bell trade, and the parity rights. If you'll look at the plaques in some Commonwealth buildings like the National Museum and other neo-classical buildings in Manila, you'll see there that the funds for reconstruction came from the People of the US to "aid" us. source 2 (http://www.hq.usace.army.mil/history/Philippines%203.pdf)
wiki (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_Philippines_%281946%E2%80%931965%29)

and no, I don't think the churches were included in reconstruction.

Was the Catholic church and other institutions inside Intramuros compensated for the destruction?I think I read somewhere that the U.S. government could not provide aid for church reconstruction due to separation of church & state.

Was the Catholic church and other institutions inside Intramuros compensated for the destruction?I think I read somewhere that the U.S. government could not provide aid for church reconstruction due to separation of church & state.

Since you brought up that part of Philippine history, let me ask you, Is it safe to say 6 decades later Filipinos still have no clue on how to rebuild or at least clean up the mess of the 2nd World War around Intramuros?:) Are you sure there were not any funds set aside for the reconstruction and clean up of Intramuros, be it local or foreign funded?

I only emphasized the damage incurred in Dubrovnik against the destructin of Manila, including the time frame of the events as well as the preferred plans of their own particular time, the 1945 and 1990 timeframe. In the latter, restoration is already a standard practice, particularly for UNESCO sites.

The case of Manila is different. The institutions preferred to move out. Santo Domingo and Lourdes in Quezon City, the Franciscans in Forbes Park, the sisters of Santa Clara in Quezon City, the Jesuits in the 50+ hectare Ateneo Campus and the Recollects mainly in the Tierra Pura property. The acquisition of the Loyola Heights property was part of the Jesuit compensation. I have no data regarding the others.

Since you brought up that part of Philippine history, let me ask you, Is it safe to say 6 decades later Filipinos still have no clue on how to rebuild or at least clean up the mess of the 2nd World War around Intramuros?:) Are you sure there were not any funds set aside for the reconstruction and clean up of Intramuros, be it local or foreign funded?

I only emphasized the damage incurred in Dubrovnik against the destructin of Manila, including the time frame of the events as well as the preferred plans of their own particular time, the 1945 and 1990 timeframe. In the latter, restoration is already a standard practice, particularly for UNESCO sites.

The case of Manila is different. The institutions preferred to move out. Santo Domingo and Lourdes in Quezon City, the Franciscans in Forbes Park, the sisters of Santa Clara in Quezon City, the Jesuits in the 50+ hectare Ateneo Campus and the Recollects mainly in the Tierra Pura property. The acquisition of the Loyola Heights property was part of the Jesuit compensation. I have no data regarding the others.

XP,

I think the 1972 Maharlika Highway was still part of the war compensation. Imagine the hulugan system imposed on us.

XP,

I think the 1972 Maharlika Highway was still part of the war compensation. Imagine the hulugan system imposed on us.

Post war reconstruction involved war reparations. Was the compensation both from Japan and the US or was it Japan only?

And was the reconstruction only for American era built structures like the Post Office building, provincial capitols etc. Was the Catholic church and other institutions inside Intramuros compensated for the destruction?

Found this:

(War Damage Compensation through Rehabilitation: The Philippine War Damage Commission


http://www.jstor.org/pss/1190168)

The markers at various bridges and government buildings read something like: Restored and reconstruction through the aid of the American people. (Quezon Bridge, and most of the Government Center buildings. )

With regards to the other buildings in Intramuros, the Intendencia was intact ! There are no data on the compensation for the government buildings and residences inside Intramuros. There are no compensation for private citizens, which would comprise a sizable portion of Intramuros.

Post war reconstruction involved war reparations. Was the compensation both from Japan and the US or was it Japan only?

And was the reconstruction only for American era built structures like the Post Office building, provincial capitols etc. Was the Catholic church and other institutions inside Intramuros compensated for the destruction?

Found this:

(War Damage Compensation through Rehabilitation: The Philippine War Damage Commission


http://www.jstor.org/pss/1190168)

The markers at various bridges and government buildings read something like: Restored and reconstruction through the aid of the American people. (Quezon Bridge, and most of the Government Center buildings. )

With regards to the other buildings in Intramuros, the Intendencia was intact ! There are no data on the compensation for the government buildings and residences inside Intramuros. There are no compensation for private citizens, which would comprise a sizable portion of Intramuros.

I only emphasized the damage incurred in Dubrovnik against the destructin of Manila, including the time frame of the events as well as the preferred plans of their own particular time, the 1945 and 1990 timeframe. In the latter, restoration is already a standard practice, particularly for UNESCO sites.

The case of Manila is different. The institutions preferred to move out. Santo Domingo and Lourdes in Quezon City, the Franciscans in Forbes Park, the sisters of Santa Clara in Quezon City, the Jesuits in the 50+ hectare Ateneo Campus and the Recollects mainly in the Tierra Pura property. The acquisition of the Loyola Heights property was part of the Jesuit compensation. I have no data regarding the others.

Have you not realised it yet that 6 long decades have passed and Intramuros is still a mess??

I only emphasized the damage incurred in Dubrovnik against the destructin of Manila, including the time frame of the events as well as the preferred plans of their own particular time, the 1945 and 1990 timeframe. In the latter, restoration is already a standard practice, particularly for UNESCO sites.

The case of Manila is different. The institutions preferred to move out. Santo Domingo and Lourdes in Quezon City, the Franciscans in Forbes Park, the sisters of Santa Clara in Quezon City, the Jesuits in the 50+ hectare Ateneo Campus and the Recollects mainly in the Tierra Pura property. The acquisition of the Loyola Heights property was part of the Jesuit compensation. I have no data regarding the others.

Have you not realised it yet that 6 long decades have passed and Intramuros is still a mess??

Have you not realised it yet that 6 long decades have passed and Intramuros is still a mess??


Well we have realized something, and its the reality that we are facing. You can only restore certain buildings, like San Ignacio, but not the others because the institutions moved out. The San Ignacio will be restored, not as a church but as an ecclesiastical museum.

The enclave's most significant structures have already been restored. The walls ( but not the moat) and the Cathedral. Plans were also revive to reconstruct the Ateneo de Manila as a hotel, provided the funds come.

The bottom line, if the officials go to Dubrovnik, they will not learn anything because the buildings there are still being used as they were 500 years ago. The foreign funds are being channeled to these institutions to restore their structures so that they can continue to use it again.

Have you not realised it yet that 6 long decades have passed and Intramuros is still a mess??


Well we have realized something, and its the reality that we are facing. You can only restore certain buildings, like San Ignacio, but not the others because the institutions moved out. The San Ignacio will be restored, not as a church but as an ecclesiastical museum.

The enclave's most significant structures have already been restored. The walls ( but not the moat) and the Cathedral. Plans were also revive to reconstruct the Ateneo de Manila as a hotel, provided the funds come.

The bottom line, if the officials go to Dubrovnik, they will not learn anything because the buildings there are still being used as they were 500 years ago. The foreign funds are being channeled to these institutions to restore their structures so that they can continue to use it again.

^^^^That is the problem, whatever is left in the area, it is not being properly restored. Worse, the Intramuros Administration is proposing to build a structure from the ground up when its funds could be used to properly restore and maintain existing structures .

If local officials cannot even improve the situation in a small area like Intramuros, just imagine the daunting task of improving the situation in the whole Metro Manila.

^^^^That is the problem, whatever is left in the area, it is not being properly restored. Worse, the Intramuros Administration is proposing to build a structure from the ground up when its funds could be used to properly restore and maintain existing structures .

If local officials cannot even improve the situation in a small area like Intramuros, just imagine the daunting task of improving the situation in the whole Metro Manila.

The bottom line, if the officials go to Dubrovnik, they will not learn anything because the buildings there are still being used as they were 500 years ago. The foreign funds are being channeled to these institutions to restore their structures so that they can continue to use it again.

Structures in Intramuros is part of the city of Manila with existing schools, churches, offices, parks..... In other words it is a very active community. There are funds locally and foreign that are being appropriated for Intramuros but are these funds being used wisely or is it being plundered by corrupt authorities?:)

The bottom line, if the officials go to Dubrovnik, they will not learn anything because the buildings there are still being used as they were 500 years ago. The foreign funds are being channeled to these institutions to restore their structures so that they can continue to use it again.

Structures in Intramuros is part of the city of Manila with existing schools, churches, offices, parks..... In other words it is a very active community. There are funds locally and foreign that are being appropriated for Intramuros but are these funds being used wisely or is it being plundered by corrupt authorities?:)

Jeff,

Do you know if they will restore San Ignacio following the International standards, such as using the materials used in the original construction ?

I think there are still existing plans of the church. However, the church as built differs from the plan being kept in the Spanish archives. I also believe that there are more pictures of the church in the collection of the forumers. If it is a systematic restoration of the church, we can give a hand by putting together all the pictures we can find. This would be of great help in the restoration of the structure.

Jeff,

Do you know if they will restore San Ignacio following the International standards, such as using the materials used in the original construction ?

I think there are still existing plans of the church. However, the church as built differs from the plan being kept in the Spanish archives. I also believe that there are more pictures of the church in the collection of the forumers. If it is a systematic restoration of the church, we can give a hand by putting together all the pictures we can find. This would be of great help in the restoration of the structure.

^^ Kapag may plano naman si Bambi, tinatanong niya ako kaagad kung may old photos ako. I'm assuming kung ire-restore ang San Ignacio, she'll ask for photos as well.

I agree that SSC Phil. heritage has an extensive array of old photos. Very good source of info and photos for reference.

^^ Kapag may plano naman si Bambi, tinatanong niya ako kaagad kung may old photos ako. I'm assuming kung ire-restore ang San Ignacio, she'll ask for photos as well.

I agree that SSC Phil. heritage has an extensive array of old photos. Very good source of info and photos for reference.

Problem last night at Intramuros...Street children and tambays at the college lane...


Sad but I noticed there are lots of vagrants not only in Intramuros but in the public parks of Manila nowadays. Remember when we visited Intramuros last time? Some kids approached us asking for alms or a portion of our food. I went to the McDonald's restroom and was shocked to find a boy bathing himself at the lavatory. It is heart-wrenching to see those street children and not give in to their supplications but on the other hand I also think it would be best to harden one's heart.

Intramuros should be made free of beggars so that visitors would feel secure to walk within its walls. Concerned government agencies should address the proliferation of vagrants. The children should be with their families and in school not walking around even at night begging.

Problem last night at Intramuros...Street children and tambays at the college lane...


Sad but I noticed there are lots of vagrants not only in Intramuros but in the public parks of Manila nowadays. Remember when we visited Intramuros last time? Some kids approached us asking for alms or a portion of our food. I went to the McDonald's restroom and was shocked to find a boy bathing himself at the lavatory. It is heart-wrenching to see those street children and not give in to their supplications but on the other hand I also think it would be best to harden one's heart.

Intramuros should be made free of beggars so that visitors would feel secure to walk within its walls. Concerned government agencies should address the proliferation of vagrants. The children should be with their families and in school not walking around even at night begging.

I've visited San Juan, Puerto Rico and I've noticed that Intramuros has wider streets as compared to San Juan. Even some provincial streets in the Philippines seems to be wider in comparison. Like for example in the old town center of Albuquerque, New Mexico the streets seems to be narrower.

I've visited San Juan, Puerto Rico and I've noticed that Intramuros has wider streets as compared to San Juan. Even some provincial streets in the Philippines seems to be wider in comparison. Like for example in the old town center of Albuquerque, New Mexico the streets seems to be narrower.

Some suggestions:

-Full revaluation of bldg. requirements & restrictions

Constantly improve and update it to meet current demands of the era, especially concerning sustainability. There should be clear and more specific rules and guidelines on the walled city's micro as well as macro environment, both inside and outside its stone walls. Merely making it "look" and "feel" right won't do much good. In fact, it won't do any good at all especially in the long run. The place is a huge history vault making it a very sensitive piece of property. Each area and space there is unique, having diverse requirements for each and every location, which usually entails to a series of problems that ultimately has to be dealt with using precise yet versatile, not to mention sustainable solutions (maybe even extreme ones). Perhaps subdivide Intramuros into more manageable and enforceable sectors to meet these specific demands. Then evaluate and work out the flaws and loopholes for each sector and eventually, Intramuros as a whole. Find out what works and what doesn't.

- Hold design competitions on developing Intramuros, but oriented and addressed more on a sustainable and cultural aspect, something like what they did with the CCP complex. There really has to be a decent museum in there.

- More green and less concrete. Give extra special attention to parks and plazas - the life streams of Intramuros since the beginning... or at least they should be.

- Develop a tram system and perhaps electric jeepneys as a primary and perhaps the only means of public transportation. I agree with providing more bike and pedestrian-friendly roads. Limit but not totally eliminate access to private vehicles, again depending on a specific area. Kalesa ambulances anyone? How about kalabaw dump trucks? Provide a general public parking facility, but outside Intramuros.

- no infamous mmda-esque color combinations and billboards within Intramuros and its surrounding area. Perhaps a 500m to 1km ban from the stone walls. That includes posters of candidates as well.

- As for the squatters/informal settlers... I really don't know. Let's face it - they're everywhere and they're here to stay for a very long time. It's a national problem extending beyond the walls of Intramuros, really. Unless we do something about this problem on a national scale, we might as well just give them their very own stone walls inside Intramuros... with moats and cannons... and gates... with spike... spires.

Some suggestions:

-Full revaluation of bldg. requirements & restrictions

Constantly improve and update it to meet current demands of the era, especially concerning sustainability. There should be clear and more specific rules and guidelines on the walled city's micro as well as macro environment, both inside and outside its stone walls. Merely making it "look" and "feel" right won't do much good. In fact, it won't do any good at all especially in the long run. The place is a huge history vault making it a very sensitive piece of property. Each area and space there is unique, having diverse requirements for each and every location, which usually entails to a series of problems that ultimately has to be dealt with using precise yet versatile, not to mention sustainable solutions (maybe even extreme ones). Perhaps subdivide Intramuros into more manageable and enforceable sectors to meet these specific demands. Then evaluate and work out the flaws and loopholes for each sector and eventually, Intramuros as a whole. Find out what works and what doesn't.

- Hold design competitions on developing Intramuros, but oriented and addressed more on a sustainable and cultural aspect, something like what they did with the CCP complex. There really has to be a decent museum in there.

- More green and less concrete. Give extra special attention to parks and plazas - the life streams of Intramuros since the beginning... or at least they should be.

- Develop a tram system and perhaps electric jeepneys as a primary and perhaps the only means of public transportation. I agree with providing more bike and pedestrian-friendly roads. Limit but not totally eliminate access to private vehicles, again depending on a specific area. Kalesa ambulances anyone? How about kalabaw dump trucks? Provide a general public parking facility, but outside Intramuros.

- no infamous mmda-esque color combinations and billboards within Intramuros and its surrounding area. Perhaps a 500m to 1km ban from the stone walls. That includes posters of candidates as well.

- As for the squatters/informal settlers... I really don't know. Let's face it - they're everywhere and they're here to stay for a very long time. It's a national problem extending beyond the walls of Intramuros, really. Unless we do something about this problem on a national scale, we might as well just give them their very own stone walls inside Intramuros... with moats and cannons... and gates... with spike... spires.

^^
The urban law of that time stipulates that in warmer countries, the streets should be narrower so that the streets were shaded during most parts of the day. In colder areas, the streets should be wider so that it would receive more sunlight.

^^
The urban law of that time stipulates that in warmer countries, the streets should be narrower so that the streets were shaded during most parts of the day. In colder areas, the streets should be wider so that it would receive more sunlight.

1. restore all ancestral structures within Intramuros.
2. get rid of all illegal settlers inside.
3. no cars, jeeps or tricycles inside, just scooters ala Rome, Italy, encourage the visitors to walk.
4. have a private company to run Intramuros and make it a profitable tourism destination.
5. Build small to medium rise hotels with the spanish colonial theme.
6. Museums that features the colonization including a theatre.
7. Lastly, restore the whole place from the cobblestone roads to the lamp posts and put more security guards inside.

1. restore all ancestral structures within Intramuros.
2. get rid of all illegal settlers inside.
3. no cars, jeeps or tricycles inside, just scooters ala Rome, Italy, encourage the visitors to walk.
4. have a private company to run Intramuros and make it a profitable tourism destination.
5. Build small to medium rise hotels with the spanish colonial theme.
6. Museums that features the colonization including a theatre.
7. Lastly, restore the whole place from the cobblestone roads to the lamp posts and put more security guards inside.

This is a very good thread very informative. I've been thinking maybe we could all play a part in preserving our rich heritage. One avenue is by blogging about it. There are alot of bloggers out there blogging about the old walled city.

http://metrorat.wordpress.com/
http://traveleronfoot.wordpress.com/
http://www.habagat.i.ph/

Those are the only blogs I know of..

I am also frustrated at how our government continually neglects one of our most important heritage. I hope the government moves for more preservation in the future rather than creating new monstrosities in the area. Buhayin ang Maynila!

This is a very good thread very informative. I've been thinking maybe we could all play a part in preserving our rich heritage. One avenue is by blogging about it. There are alot of bloggers out there blogging about the old walled city.

http://metrorat.wordpress.com/
http://traveleronfoot.wordpress.com/
http://www.habagat.i.ph/

Those are the only blogs I know of..

I am also frustrated at how our government continually neglects one of our most important heritage. I hope the government moves for more preservation in the future rather than creating new monstrosities in the area. Buhayin ang Maynila!

I've visited San Juan, Puerto Rico and I've noticed that Intramuros has wider streets as compared to San Juan. Even some provincial streets in the Philippines seems to be wider in comparison. Like for example in the old town center of Albuquerque, New Mexico the streets seems to be narrower.

I am of the opinion that narrower streets could contribute to the better preservation of historic areas like San Juan since only human traffic could be allowed. Rambling noise, vibrations, and vehicular fumes add to the wear of tear of historic buildings.

I've visited San Juan, Puerto Rico and I've noticed that Intramuros has wider streets as compared to San Juan. Even some provincial streets in the Philippines seems to be wider in comparison. Like for example in the old town center of Albuquerque, New Mexico the streets seems to be narrower.

I am of the opinion that narrower streets could contribute to the better preservation of historic areas like San Juan since only human traffic could be allowed. Rambling noise, vibrations, and vehicular fumes add to the wear of tear of historic buildings.

I am of the opinion that narrower streets could contribute to the better preservation of historic areas like San Juan since only human traffic could be allowed. Rambling noise, vibrations, and vehicular fumes add to the wear of tear of historic buildings.

Surprisingly, San Juan's narrow streets are not entirely pedestrianized. A lot of it is open to vehicular traffic (so sometimes when you park, you get to occupy the sidewalk). I guess this goes to show that Puerto Rico is indeed US territory, with the Americans love for the automobile. But some streets are also closed to vehicular traffic.

I agree completely that heritage areas be closed to vehicular traffic, like for example Taal and Vigan. There should just be an area where cars or vehicles are allowed and if it is necessary.

I am of the opinion that narrower streets could contribute to the better preservation of historic areas like San Juan since only human traffic could be allowed. Rambling noise, vibrations, and vehicular fumes add to the wear of tear of historic buildings.

Surprisingly, San Juan's narrow streets are not entirely pedestrianized. A lot of it is open to vehicular traffic (so sometimes when you park, you get to occupy the sidewalk). I guess this goes to show that Puerto Rico is indeed US territory, with the Americans love for the automobile. But some streets are also closed to vehicular traffic.

I agree completely that heritage areas be closed to vehicular traffic, like for example Taal and Vigan. There should just be an area where cars or vehicles are allowed and if it is necessary.

^^Ms. Bambi Harper in The Explainer today confirmed that the Ayuntamiento will be restored.Funded by the Bureau of Customs it will start Jan. 09.Then possibly the Old Ateneo? to house the Intramuros treasures.I liked it specially when she said that this is for your children and the next generation.It's uncanny but I do feel she'll do a lot for Intramuros unfortunately her term is co-terminus w/ Arroyo.She also mentioned about a politico in Manila asking her if the city can sell some of the artifacts.Ganid talaga:ohno:

^^Ms. Bambi Harper in The Explainer today confirmed that the Ayuntamiento will be restored.Funded by the Bureau of Customs it will start Jan. 09.Then possibly the Old Ateneo? to house the Intramuros treasures.I liked it specially when she said that this is for your children and the next generation.It's uncanny but I do feel she'll do a lot for Intramuros unfortunately her term is co-terminus w/ Arroyo.She also mentioned about a politico in Manila asking her if the city can sell some of the artifacts.Ganid talaga:ohno:

Rebuilding Intramuros
ROSES & THORNS By Alejandro R. Roces
Thursday, August 28, 2008
In the aftermath of World War II, if someone had told us that Intramuros would never be restored to her pre-war beauty, we would not have believed them. Yet, here we are, over 60 years since the end of the Japanese occupation and the destruction of what was once called “The Loyal and Ever-Loyal City of Manila”, My Manila. There have been brilliant concepts and valiant attempts and some small improvements have occurred. Within the walls of Intramuros, there are pockets of rebirth, but the entirety sadly remains in a state reminiscent of 1947.

Of all the cities razed after World War II, Manila was the second most destroyed, next to Warsaw, Poland. Intramuros was the crown jewel of the Philippine islands, the seat of power for more than three hundred years. It is a priceless historical artifact that stands witness to how the city evolved and came to be what we now know as Manila.

In March this year, Mrs. Ana Marie “Bambi” L. Harper was sworn in as the new head of the Intramuros Administration. As a staunch advocate of cultural heritage and preservation, and a fierce critic of the re-development (or lack thereof) of Intramuros, Mrs. Harper is the best person to lay the groundwork for the revival of the Walled City. Intramuros Administration was founded in the 1970s through a Presidential Proclamation, the purpose of which is to rehabilitate Intramuros, the heart of Manila. Mrs. Harper envisions that the historical and architectural potential of Intramuros to be one of the premier examples of heritage conservation in the world, will be revealed. She knows that the primary key in realizing this is good management and administration.

Fortuitously, there are outstanding examples throughout the world that the current Intramuros Administration can use as a template. Deep in the heart of Texas lies the city of San Antonio, a city that has a twofold example of preservation. At one point in time, the Riverwalk was just a muddy river in serious need of cleaning. However, in the 1970s, the San Antonio city government undertook a tremendous project and redeveloped a portion of the river into a premier shopping and tourist attraction. In combination with the stringent rules governing the Alamo, an old church complex that is at the center of Texan mythos, the entirety of the downtown is a shining example of preservation and tourism. The key factor in the successful preservation and redevelopment of San Antonio is the strict adherence to a master plan for preservation and renewal created for the purpose. Aside from this, rules and regulations for the protection of the historical sites were also passed. A non-government entity enforces these rules and oversees the implementation of all new projects.

Another excellent example is in Cartagena, Colombia. This city was once notorious for being a drug den. In the last decade, an ambitious plan to renew the entire city was created. It has since become a hot spot for tourism and retirees. People walk along quaint cobblestoned streets and visit cultural shops. There is now a thriving artistic community and an exuberant nightlife.

We are very gratified to see Intramuros in the capable hands of Mrs. Bambi Harper and we look forward to seeing the unfolding of the plans she has in store for the city. A first step to renewing Intramuros would be to visit the sites where dramatic and successful historical preservation and resuscitation work were done and to study how and why they succeeded. Two things we would like to see again in Intramuros are the former piedra china sidewalks and the cobblestone streets. Intramuros has too much potential and too much historical significance to remain wasted and unattended.

Intramuros marked the start of Metro Manila; it is the heart and soul of Manila. The Walled City must assume its rightful place as the centerpiece of Philippine tourism. It should become our gift to the next generations to come.

Rebuilding Intramuros
ROSES & THORNS By Alejandro R. Roces
Thursday, August 28, 2008
In the aftermath of World War II, if someone had told us that Intramuros would never be restored to her pre-war beauty, we would not have believed them. Yet, here we are, over 60 years since the end of the Japanese occupation and the destruction of what was once called “The Loyal and Ever-Loyal City of Manila”, My Manila. There have been brilliant concepts and valiant attempts and some small improvements have occurred. Within the walls of Intramuros, there are pockets of rebirth, but the entirety sadly remains in a state reminiscent of 1947.

Of all the cities razed after World War II, Manila was the second most destroyed, next to Warsaw, Poland. Intramuros was the crown jewel of the Philippine islands, the seat of power for more than three hundred years. It is a priceless historical artifact that stands witness to how the city evolved and came to be what we now know as Manila.

In March this year, Mrs. Ana Marie “Bambi” L. Harper was sworn in as the new head of the Intramuros Administration. As a staunch advocate of cultural heritage and preservation, and a fierce critic of the re-development (or lack thereof) of Intramuros, Mrs. Harper is the best person to lay the groundwork for the revival of the Walled City. Intramuros Administration was founded in the 1970s through a Presidential Proclamation, the purpose of which is to rehabilitate Intramuros, the heart of Manila. Mrs. Harper envisions that the historical and architectural potential of Intramuros to be one of the premier examples of heritage conservation in the world, will be revealed. She knows that the primary key in realizing this is good management and administration.

Fortuitously, there are outstanding examples throughout the world that the current Intramuros Administration can use as a template. Deep in the heart of Texas lies the city of San Antonio, a city that has a twofold example of preservation. At one point in time, the Riverwalk was just a muddy river in serious need of cleaning. However, in the 1970s, the San Antonio city government undertook a tremendous project and redeveloped a portion of the river into a premier shopping and tourist attraction. In combination with the stringent rules governing the Alamo, an old church complex that is at the center of Texan mythos, the entirety of the downtown is a shining example of preservation and tourism. The key factor in the successful preservation and redevelopment of San Antonio is the strict adherence to a master plan for preservation and renewal created for the purpose. Aside from this, rules and regulations for the protection of the historical sites were also passed. A non-government entity enforces these rules and oversees the implementation of all new projects.

Another excellent example is in Cartagena, Colombia. This city was once notorious for being a drug den. In the last decade, an ambitious plan to renew the entire city was created. It has since become a hot spot for tourism and retirees. People walk along quaint cobblestoned streets and visit cultural shops. There is now a thriving artistic community and an exuberant nightlife.

We are very gratified to see Intramuros in the capable hands of Mrs. Bambi Harper and we look forward to seeing the unfolding of the plans she has in store for the city. A first step to renewing Intramuros would be to visit the sites where dramatic and successful historical preservation and resuscitation work were done and to study how and why they succeeded. Two things we would like to see again in Intramuros are the former piedra china sidewalks and the cobblestone streets. Intramuros has too much potential and too much historical significance to remain wasted and unattended.

Intramuros marked the start of Metro Manila; it is the heart and soul of Manila. The Walled City must assume its rightful place as the centerpiece of Philippine tourism. It should become our gift to the next generations to come.

I remember going here last year.
I was incredibly disappointed with the current appearance of Intramuros.
Soooo much garbage and spaghetti power lines where they should not be seen.
Not to mention the aftermath of the World War II which can still be seen in the entire walled city.

I remember going here last year.
I was incredibly disappointed with the current appearance of Intramuros.
Soooo much garbage and spaghetti power lines where they should not be seen.
Not to mention the aftermath of the World War II which can still be seen in the entire walled city.

^^Ms. Bambi Harper in The Explainer today confirmed that the Ayuntamiento will be restored.Funded by the Bureau of Customs it will start Jan. 09.Then possibly the Old Ateneo? to house the Intramuros treasures.I liked it specially when she said that this is for your children and the next generation.It's uncanny but I do feel she'll do a lot for Intramuros unfortunately her term is co-terminus w/ Arroyo.She also mentioned about a politico in Manila asking her if the city can sell some of the artifacts.Ganid talaga:ohno:

I really like Ms. Harper because she knows the value of the place and a Spanish-speaking manileña too! She likes Philippine history and that is a great motivator for seeking to restore historical Philippine places. :cheers:

Yehey, on the Ayuntamiento and the Viejo Ateneo restorations!

^^Ms. Bambi Harper in The Explainer today confirmed that the Ayuntamiento will be restored.Funded by the Bureau of Customs it will start Jan. 09.Then possibly the Old Ateneo? to house the Intramuros treasures.I liked it specially when she said that this is for your children and the next generation.It's uncanny but I do feel she'll do a lot for Intramuros unfortunately her term is co-terminus w/ Arroyo.She also mentioned about a politico in Manila asking her if the city can sell some of the artifacts.Ganid talaga:ohno:

I really like Ms. Harper because she knows the value of the place and a Spanish-speaking manileña too! She likes Philippine history and that is a great motivator for seeking to restore historical Philippine places. :cheers:

Yehey, on the Ayuntamiento and the Viejo Ateneo restorations!

By Nickie Wang (http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/?page=goodLife4_aug23_2008)

In a candle-lit room, members of the Katipunan denounced the abuses of the Spanish government and swore to fight colonial oppression. The Katipunan or Kataas-taasang, Kagalang-galangang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan (Supreme and Venerable Society of the Children of the Nation), one of the successor organizations of La Liga Filipina that was founded by national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, was a revolutionary organization founded by the great plebeian Andres Bonifacio.

One hundred sixteen years later, Intramuros Administration (IA) staged Mabuhay, Pilipinas! Alay sa mga Anak ng Bayan, a concert dedicated to the Filipinos who valiantly fought during the revolution against Spain for the liberation of the Philippines.

Compared to the humble place where Katipunan was established, the program on Aug. 13 was held in a grandiose colonial house influenced by the architectural styles of art noveau and art deco. The venue of the concert was the Casa Blanca at the Plaza San Luiz Complex in Manila’s Walled City.

“Every month of August, we pay homage to our national heroes who died fighting for Philippine independence,” Intramuros administrator Anna Maria Harper said. “I am greatly honored to welcome everyone to this concert that honors our brave heroes,” she added in her opening remarks.

The one-hour concert directed by Felipe de Leon Jr. celebrated beautiful classical and patriotic songs of the 19th century, composed by Filipinos regarded as strong pillars of the Philippine music and who established the nationalist tradition. Nicanor Abelardo, Francisco Santiago, Julio Nakpil, and carried on by the next generation of composers among whom were Antonio Molina, Juan S. de Hernandez, and Felipe de Leon are included as well.

Their works are rarely performed and heard in the concert stages these days. One of the goals of the concert was to generate awareness of the various aspects of the 19th century music aside from honoring brave heroes who risked their lives just to gain independence.

Among the musical pieces performed included: “Alerta Katipunan” by the Lyceum University Chorale; “Mula ng Mauso ang Damit,” an 1873 folksong of General Trias, Cavite, sung by baritone Jonathan Badon: and “Jocelynang Baliuag,” rendered by former Central Bank governor Jaime Laya.

The concert also featured pianist Nena del Rosario-Villanueva who impressed the audience with her version of A. Doronila’s “Philippine Rhapsody.” Pianist Jourdann Petalver, soprano Camille Lopez, and violinist Coke Bolipata were also outstanding in entertaining the mostly elite audience. The program ended with the singing of Felipe de Leon’s “Ako’y Pilipino” sang in unison by all the performers.

Tourism Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque and National Commission for Culture and the Arts’ Vilma Labrador were the nationalist concert’s guests of honor. Also present in the event were president of Heritage Conservation Society of the Philippines Gemma Cruz-Araneta and fashion designer Pitoy Moreno.

By Nickie Wang (http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/?page=goodLife4_aug23_2008)

In a candle-lit room, members of the Katipunan denounced the abuses of the Spanish government and swore to fight colonial oppression. The Katipunan or Kataas-taasang, Kagalang-galangang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan (Supreme and Venerable Society of the Children of the Nation), one of the successor organizations of La Liga Filipina that was founded by national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, was a revolutionary organization founded by the great plebeian Andres Bonifacio.

One hundred sixteen years later, Intramuros Administration (IA) staged Mabuhay, Pilipinas! Alay sa mga Anak ng Bayan, a concert dedicated to the Filipinos who valiantly fought during the revolution against Spain for the liberation of the Philippines.

Compared to the humble place where Katipunan was established, the program on Aug. 13 was held in a grandiose colonial house influenced by the architectural styles of art noveau and art deco. The venue of the concert was the Casa Blanca at the Plaza San Luiz Complex in Manila’s Walled City.

“Every month of August, we pay homage to our national heroes who died fighting for Philippine independence,” Intramuros administrator Anna Maria Harper said. “I am greatly honored to welcome everyone to this concert that honors our brave heroes,” she added in her opening remarks.

The one-hour concert directed by Felipe de Leon Jr. celebrated beautiful classical and patriotic songs of the 19th century, composed by Filipinos regarded as strong pillars of the Philippine music and who established the nationalist tradition. Nicanor Abelardo, Francisco Santiago, Julio Nakpil, and carried on by the next generation of composers among whom were Antonio Molina, Juan S. de Hernandez, and Felipe de Leon are included as well.

Their works are rarely performed and heard in the concert stages these days. One of the goals of the concert was to generate awareness of the various aspects of the 19th century music aside from honoring brave heroes who risked their lives just to gain independence.

Among the musical pieces performed included: “Alerta Katipunan” by the Lyceum University Chorale; “Mula ng Mauso ang Damit,” an 1873 folksong of General Trias, Cavite, sung by baritone Jonathan Badon: and “Jocelynang Baliuag,” rendered by former Central Bank governor Jaime Laya.

The concert also featured pianist Nena del Rosario-Villanueva who impressed the audience with her version of A. Doronila’s “Philippine Rhapsody.” Pianist Jourdann Petalver, soprano Camille Lopez, and violinist Coke Bolipata were also outstanding in entertaining the mostly elite audience. The program ended with the singing of Felipe de Leon’s “Ako’y Pilipino” sang in unison by all the performers.

Tourism Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque and National Commission for Culture and the Arts’ Vilma Labrador were the nationalist concert’s guests of honor. Also present in the event were president of Heritage Conservation Society of the Philippines Gemma Cruz-Araneta and fashion designer Pitoy Moreno.

Yehey, on the Ayuntamiento and the Viejo Ateneo restorations!I know! This news made my week.I'd really write to her and tell her,she's doing a great job!Muy Bien IA!:)

Yehey, on the Ayuntamiento and the Viejo Ateneo restorations!I know! This news made my week.I'd really write to her and tell her,she's doing a great job!Muy Bien IA!:)

Rebuilding Intramuros
ROSES & THORNS By Alejandro R. Roces
Thursday, August 28, 2008
In the aftermath of World War II, if someone had told us that Intramuros would never be restored to her pre-war beauty, we would not have believed them. Yet, here we are, over 60 years since the end of the Japanese occupation and the destruction of what was once called “The Loyal and Ever-Loyal City of Manila”, My Manila...

...Intramuros marked the start of Metro Manila; it is the heart and soul of Manila. The Walled City must assume its rightful place as the centerpiece of Philippine tourism. It should become our gift to the next generations to come.

YES! YES!
YES!
JP

Rebuilding Intramuros
ROSES & THORNS By Alejandro R. Roces
Thursday, August 28, 2008
In the aftermath of World War II, if someone had told us that Intramuros would never be restored to her pre-war beauty, we would not have believed them. Yet, here we are, over 60 years since the end of the Japanese occupation and the destruction of what was once called “The Loyal and Ever-Loyal City of Manila”, My Manila...

...Intramuros marked the start of Metro Manila; it is the heart and soul of Manila. The Walled City must assume its rightful place as the centerpiece of Philippine tourism. It should become our gift to the next generations to come.

YES! YES!
YES!
JP

I know! This news made my week.I'd really write to her and tell her,she's doing a great job!Muy Bien IA!:)

I hope that people from the Philippine Government or Intramuros Administration get to see this thread! Here is a thread about Cartegena de Indias (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=396215) and I would like to see Intramuros de Manila to be transform into a place like it was before in MY LIFE TIME. :D

I know! This news made my week.I'd really write to her and tell her,she's doing a great job!Muy Bien IA!:)

I hope that people from the Philippine Government or Intramuros Administration get to see this thread! Here is a thread about Cartegena de Indias (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=396215) and I would like to see Intramuros de Manila to be transform into a place like it was before in MY LIFE TIME. :D

I hope that people from the Philippine Government or Intramuros Administration get to see this thread! Here is a thread about Cartegena de Indias (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=396215) and I would like to see Intramuros de Manila to be transform into a place like it was before in MY LIFE TIME. :D

My God Animo! An uncanny resemblance to Intramuros!It's like Intramuros after 7 bottles of San mig! Ang ganda.Indeed! I hope IA sees this!:cheers:

I hope that people from the Philippine Government or Intramuros Administration get to see this thread! Here is a thread about Cartegena de Indias (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=396215) and I would like to see Intramuros de Manila to be transform into a place like it was before in MY LIFE TIME. :D

My God Animo! An uncanny resemblance to Intramuros!It's like Intramuros after 7 bottles of San mig! Ang ganda.Indeed! I hope IA sees this!:cheers:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3134/2822082768_c80c35c891_o.jpg

Baluarte de San Diego, Puerta Real Nueva y rebellín de la misma. Terreno del antiguo foso cubierto de césped. De izquierda a derecha (left to right): el Ayuntamiento de Manila, el Congreso de Filipinas y un Ministerio.

Entre los árboles (in between the trees): la estatua levatada a Legazpi y Urdaneta.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3055/2822082716_17d71a4636_o.jpg

Panorámica: Baluarte de San Diego, San Agustín, Lourdes y Recoletos.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3042/2821244549_7fc3245ac7_o.jpg

Iglesia Capuchina de Lourdes, en la calle Real de Palacio (1897).

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3134/2822082768_c80c35c891_o.jpg

Baluarte de San Diego, Puerta Real Nueva y rebellín de la misma. Terreno del antiguo foso cubierto de césped. De izquierda a derecha (left to right): el Ayuntamiento de Manila, el Congreso de Filipinas y un Ministerio.

Entre los árboles (in between the trees): la estatua levatada a Legazpi y Urdaneta.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3055/2822082716_17d71a4636_o.jpg

Panorámica: Baluarte de San Diego, San Agustín, Lourdes y Recoletos.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3042/2821244549_7fc3245ac7_o.jpg

Iglesia Capuchina de Lourdes, en la calle Real de Palacio (1897).

Iglesia de San Agustín

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3151/2822210084_f41ec3a6a5_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3136/2822210222_705aa6946f_o.jpg

Universidad de Santo Tomás

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3116/2822209680_e7ee1c9804_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3043/2822209872_409080e446_o.jpg

Iglesia de San Agustín

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3151/2822210084_f41ec3a6a5_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3136/2822210222_705aa6946f_o.jpg

Universidad de Santo Tomás

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3116/2822209680_e7ee1c9804_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3043/2822209872_409080e446_o.jpg

San Francisco y la V.O.T., dos iglesias con un compás común.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3289/2821392287_3aeacb1319_o.jpg

Iglesia de San Francisco

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2106/2821392577_faa4b1b731_o.jpg

Iglesia de Recoletos

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3182/2821392413_7b3f9bf205_o.jpg

San Francisco y la V.O.T., dos iglesias con un compás común.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3289/2821392287_3aeacb1319_o.jpg

Iglesia de San Francisco

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2106/2821392577_faa4b1b731_o.jpg

Iglesia de Recoletos

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3182/2821392413_7b3f9bf205_o.jpg

Colegio de Santa Catalina y Colegio de San Juan de Letrán

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3195/2821411743_834ba578c4_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3290/2822250280_e8a5859d2f_o.jpg

Colegio de Santa Rosa

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3216/2822250432_7ee877f934_o.jpg

Colegio de Santa Catalina y Colegio de San Juan de Letrán

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3195/2821411743_834ba578c4_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3290/2822250280_e8a5859d2f_o.jpg

Colegio de Santa Rosa

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3216/2822250432_7ee877f934_o.jpg

Santa Clara

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3053/2821436461_95e690e82b_o.jpg

Colegio de Santa Isabel

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3013/2821436649_1a7f997d19_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3030/2822275072_2aa633c409_o.jpg

Santa Clara

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3053/2821436461_95e690e82b_o.jpg

Colegio de Santa Isabel

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3013/2821436649_1a7f997d19_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3030/2822275072_2aa633c409_o.jpg

Amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

IA chief sorry over trees, but blames aides (http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/09042008/headlines010.html)

INTRAMUROS Administrator Anna Maria Harper apologized to the country on Wednesday in a statement where she said in part, “We owe the Filipino people, who own Intramuros, a deep apology, which we do extend most sincerely for this unfortunate incident.”

She was referring to the cutting down of 29 decades-old trees in Plaza Intramuros in front of the Manila Cathedral by personnel of the Intramuros Administration (IA).

She said she was out of the country when it happened and even so had not directly ordered their cutting. “I was shocked and horrified when I saw the stumps of the trees. I rely on my reputation established as a heritage conservator and preserver of trees—the Arroceros Forest Park and the former Mehan Garden and of historic structures like the Jai-Alai—to support my credibility in this instance.”

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) had authorized an IA application to do something about the trees, but the DENR’s official permission did not include cutting down the trees, which is a violation of Section 3 of Presidential Decree 953. The understanding was that the trees would be balled and moved elsewhere. DENR officials have told Harper to explain.

On Wednesday, the DENR’s executive director for the National Capital Region Cora Davis said despite the apology, they would still hold Harper liable, and twitted her for seeking to inject politics into the matter, referring to Harper’s published remark that DENR chief Lito Atienza was simply getting back at her—because Atienza had wanted jurisdiction over the IA, which has its own charter, when he was still serving as mayor of Manila.

The DENR said the staff of the IA had no excuse for what they did because, since the permit was applied for, the DENR had supported Harper and even taught the IA people the proper way to ball and transfer the trees without damaging them.

Harper said her counsel told her that those actually liable do not include her but those who actually ordered and did the cutting of the trees. “I, as head of Intramuros Administration, did not authorize the cutting or damaging of the trees in question.”

“Having said all of the above, we would like to inform the public that we had intended and intend, with the help of donations from tree lovers, to plant over 200 flame trees [flowering caballero trees] in Intramuros for the enjoyment of the Filipino people this month of September,” she said.

Davis said Harper’s initial efforts to escape responsibility by laying the blame on a subordinate who had “mistakenly” ordered the contractor to move the trees elsewhere is untenable. “We were never remiss in our efforts to assist the IA in its purpose of moving the trees so that parkgoers can get a better view of the cathedral. From the time that Ms. Harper’s office requested DENR approval last May 22, our office had not failed to show her people how 10 of the trees which are considered premium should be balled to preserve their roots. Instead, the trees were ruthlessly cut down in violation of four of 10 rules set in their permit.’’ In addition, Davis said, Harper’s people cut 29 and not just the 27 trees covered by the permit. They also failed to coordinate with the local barangay office as required in the permit.

DENR team leader Rolando Laroya said initial investigation showed that the contractor is based in Batangas City and that they are also looking into the possibility that the chain saw used in cutting the trees is not registered.

Republic Act 9172, known as the Chain-saw Act, requires chain-saw owners to register their equipment with the DENR.

Catholic Church leaders, meanwhile, expressed their disappointment with the IA for cutting the trees in a park in front of the Manila Cathedral.

“That’s really embarrassing, they [Intramuros Administration] should have been a little more cautious. Whatever their plan is, there must be a replacement of trees,” said Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales.

“I was shocked when I found out that the trees were cut, because we were discussing that before, and they [IA] told me that they have a project to launch Intramuros as a tourist destination and they would like to improve the Plaza Roma,” Msgr. Nestor Cerbo, rector of Manila Cathedral, explained.

He then also suggested to the IA to transfer the trees from other location in order to see the façade of Manila Cathedral.

“The administration told me that they were also planning to transfer the trees to Maestranza and I agree with that idea,” Cerbo added. (J. Mayuga, S. Fabunan)

IA chief sorry over trees, but blames aides (http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/09042008/headlines010.html)

INTRAMUROS Administrator Anna Maria Harper apologized to the country on Wednesday in a statement where she said in part, “We owe the Filipino people, who own Intramuros, a deep apology, which we do extend most sincerely for this unfortunate incident.”

She was referring to the cutting down of 29 decades-old trees in Plaza Intramuros in front of the Manila Cathedral by personnel of the Intramuros Administration (IA).

She said she was out of the country when it happened and even so had not directly ordered their cutting. “I was shocked and horrified when I saw the stumps of the trees. I rely on my reputation established as a heritage conservator and preserver of trees—the Arroceros Forest Park and the former Mehan Garden and of historic structures like the Jai-Alai—to support my credibility in this instance.”

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) had authorized an IA application to do something about the trees, but the DENR’s official permission did not include cutting down the trees, which is a violation of Section 3 of Presidential Decree 953. The understanding was that the trees would be balled and moved elsewhere. DENR officials have told Harper to explain.

On Wednesday, the DENR’s executive director for the National Capital Region Cora Davis said despite the apology, they would still hold Harper liable, and twitted her for seeking to inject politics into the matter, referring to Harper’s published remark that DENR chief Lito Atienza was simply getting back at her—because Atienza had wanted jurisdiction over the IA, which has its own charter, when he was still serving as mayor of Manila.

The DENR said the staff of the IA had no excuse for what they did because, since the permit was applied for, the DENR had supported Harper and even taught the IA people the proper way to ball and transfer the trees without damaging them.

Harper said her counsel told her that those actually liable do not include her but those who actually ordered and did the cutting of the trees. “I, as head of Intramuros Administration, did not authorize the cutting or damaging of the trees in question.”

“Having said all of the above, we would like to inform the public that we had intended and intend, with the help of donations from tree lovers, to plant over 200 flame trees [flowering caballero trees] in Intramuros for the enjoyment of the Filipino people this month of September,” she said.

Davis said Harper’s initial efforts to escape responsibility by laying the blame on a subordinate who had “mistakenly” ordered the contractor to move the trees elsewhere is untenable. “We were never remiss in our efforts to assist the IA in its purpose of moving the trees so that parkgoers can get a better view of the cathedral. From the time that Ms. Harper’s office requested DENR approval last May 22, our office had not failed to show her people how 10 of the trees which are considered premium should be balled to preserve their roots. Instead, the trees were ruthlessly cut down in violation of four of 10 rules set in their permit.’’ In addition, Davis said, Harper’s people cut 29 and not just the 27 trees covered by the permit. They also failed to coordinate with the local barangay office as required in the permit.

DENR team leader Rolando Laroya said initial investigation showed that the contractor is based in Batangas City and that they are also looking into the possibility that the chain saw used in cutting the trees is not registered.

Republic Act 9172, known as the Chain-saw Act, requires chain-saw owners to register their equipment with the DENR.

Catholic Church leaders, meanwhile, expressed their disappointment with the IA for cutting the trees in a park in front of the Manila Cathedral.

“That’s really embarrassing, they [Intramuros Administration] should have been a little more cautious. Whatever their plan is, there must be a replacement of trees,” said Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales.

“I was shocked when I found out that the trees were cut, because we were discussing that before, and they [IA] told me that they have a project to launch Intramuros as a tourist destination and they would like to improve the Plaza Roma,” Msgr. Nestor Cerbo, rector of Manila Cathedral, explained.

He then also suggested to the IA to transfer the trees from other location in order to see the façade of Manila Cathedral.

“The administration told me that they were also planning to transfer the trees to Maestranza and I agree with that idea,” Cerbo added. (J. Mayuga, S. Fabunan)

I know! This news made my week.I'd really write to her and tell her,she's doing a great job!Muy Bien IA!:)

Hahaha!

I know! This news made my week.I'd really write to her and tell her,she's doing a great job!Muy Bien IA!:)

Hahaha!

I believe that Ms. Harper can turn this situation around. She had been negligent but it's a set back that she can rectify.

I believe that Ms. Harper can turn this situation around. She had been negligent but it's a set back that she can rectify.

Hahaha!

Haha ka din!

Hahaha!

Haha ka din!

I believe that Ms. Harper can turn this situation around. She had been negligent but it's a set back that she can rectify.

But seriously whoever that person who told those contractors to cut down the trees needs some serious punishment! You would think whoever is working in the Intramuros Administration should know basic rules on conservation. :bash:

On the other hand, I am for the flame trees coming back in Intramuros!

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/42/102428412_c08275b1da_o.jpg

I believe that Ms. Harper can turn this situation around. She had been negligent but it's a set back that she can rectify.

But seriously whoever that person who told those contractors to cut down the trees needs some serious punishment! You would think whoever is working in the Intramuros Administration should know basic rules on conservation. :bash:

On the other hand, I am for the flame trees coming back in Intramuros!

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/42/102428412_c08275b1da_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3212/2827770601_d2ede0286f_o.jpg

Casa del Ayuntamiento

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3027/2827770627_64a749d1e6_o.jpg

Pontificia y Real Universidad de Santo Tomás, Universidad Católica de Filipinas

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3086/2827770653_80dfb3f559_o.jpg

Hospital San Juan de Dios: Located at the Puerta del Parian at the end of Calle Real.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3286/2828688056_99d92a9a8e_o.jpg

Aduana: an 1820s custom house in Intramuros

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3212/2827770601_d2ede0286f_o.jpg

Casa del Ayuntamiento

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3027/2827770627_64a749d1e6_o.jpg

Pontificia y Real Universidad de Santo Tomás, Universidad Católica de Filipinas

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3086/2827770653_80dfb3f559_o.jpg

Hospital San Juan de Dios: Located at the Puerta del Parian at the end of Calle Real.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3286/2828688056_99d92a9a8e_o.jpg

Aduana: an 1820s custom house in Intramuros

I believe that Ms. Harper can turn this situation around. She had been negligent but it's a set back that she can rectify.

Ganiyan kasi talaga mga pakialamero at palapad ng papel. Kapag walang magagawa ang nakatataas, gagawin ang gusto. Balita ko, Ms Harper was out of the country when this happened. Sino kaya ang subordinate na iyon?

I believe that Ms. Harper can turn this situation around. She had been negligent but it's a set back that she can rectify.

Ganiyan kasi talaga mga pakialamero at palapad ng papel. Kapag walang magagawa ang nakatataas, gagawin ang gusto. Balita ko, Ms Harper was out of the country when this happened. Sino kaya ang subordinate na iyon?

^^ I support the motion. Those decades-old acacia trees will always have that sentimental value besides the cooling feel of greenery.

^^ I support the motion. Those decades-old acacia trees will always have that sentimental value besides the cooling feel of greenery.

200 flame trees seem to be a pain in the eyes. Green trees should sporadically planted in between to give the eyes a rest and refresh the view from the flaming red color. There should be more greeneries than flaming reds and oranges - tell that to Bambi Harper and all her associates to prevent misunderstanding.

200 flame trees seem to be a pain in the eyes. Green trees should sporadically planted in between to give the eyes a rest and refresh the view from the flaming red color. There should be more greeneries than flaming reds and oranges - tell that to Bambi Harper and all her associates to prevent misunderstanding.

This is ironic in a sense that we probably all know what former Mayor Atienza did to the Arroceros forest park (his being a secretary of DENR is an irony in itself) and what Ms. Harper's advocacies are. So I guess, Ms. Harper is being painted in a bad light but fortunately she is humble enough to apologize. Instead or in comparison with other officials who loves to point their fingers on other people or pass the blame and not only refuse to take any sort of blame, but also refuses to resign.

This is ironic in a sense that we probably all know what former Mayor Atienza did to the Arroceros forest park (his being a secretary of DENR is an irony in itself) and what Ms. Harper's advocacies are. So I guess, Ms. Harper is being painted in a bad light but fortunately she is humble enough to apologize. Instead or in comparison with other officials who loves to point their fingers on other people or pass the blame and not only refuse to take any sort of blame, but also refuses to resign.

200 flame trees seem to be a pain in the eyes. Green trees should sporadically planted in between to give the eyes a rest and refresh the view from the flaming red color. There should be more greeneries than flaming reds and oranges - tell that to Bambi Harper and all her associates to prevent misunderstanding.

The Flame trees aren't red and orange the whole year round. They are green most of the time but blossom in full when it's summer. If we have those to mark the advent of summer, we can have something similar to Japan and Korea's Cherry Blossom Festival.

200 flame trees seem to be a pain in the eyes. Green trees should sporadically planted in between to give the eyes a rest and refresh the view from the flaming red color. There should be more greeneries than flaming reds and oranges - tell that to Bambi Harper and all her associates to prevent misunderstanding.

The Flame trees aren't red and orange the whole year round. They are green most of the time but blossom in full when it's summer. If we have those to mark the advent of summer, we can have something similar to Japan and Korea's Cherry Blossom Festival.

The whole thing was a sabotage. Mula kasi ng naluklok sa pwesto si Bambi, nabawasan corruption sa IA hindi katulad dati nung nandun pa si Ferrer. Tuloy, walang kinikita yung mga gustong mangurakot. Gusto lang nilang siraan si Bambi hence the cutting of the trees.

I'm all for the flame trees as well.

The whole thing was a sabotage. Mula kasi ng naluklok sa pwesto si Bambi, nabawasan corruption sa IA hindi katulad dati nung nandun pa si Ferrer. Tuloy, walang kinikita yung mga gustong mangurakot. Gusto lang nilang siraan si Bambi hence the cutting of the trees.

I'm all for the flame trees as well.

Lim orders probe on tree-cutting

It’s command responsibility, says DENR (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/metro/view_article.php?article_id=158749)

By Allison Lopez, TJ Burgonio
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:12am (Mla time) 09/05/2008


MANILA, Philippines – Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim ordered the City Hall police detachment to conduct an independent investigation of the controversial tree-cutting incident at Plaza Roma in Intramuros.

Sr. Insp. Marcelo Reyes, chief of the investigation and follow-up branch of the District Special Project Unit, said that although the city government recognized that Intramuros was a separate entity, the mayor was concerned about the unnecessary felling of trees, including narra and mahogany, on Aug. 25 by the Intramuros Administration.

The IA, created by Presidential Decree 1616, has jurisdiction over the historic area, also referred to as Walled City.

“Since Intramuros is within the territorial jurisdiction of Manila, the mayor believes we should know something about it. We are still in the process of collating evidence such as the bidding contract and the rehabilitation plan. I have talked to the wife of contractor Fernando Simborio who said they really intended to ball the trees,” Reyes told the Inquirer.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources said earlier it could file charges against Intramuros administrator Anna Maria “Bambi” Harper for violating the permit they gave. In a statement, the DENR said it had issued a notice of violation and gave Harper seven days to explain why no charges should be filed against her.

If found guilty, Harper could face a two-year imprisonment term or a P5,000 fine, or both, said Corazon Davis, executive director of the DENR in Metro Manila.

The DENR is also looking into the liability of the contractor hired by the IA, and owner of the chainsaw used to cut the trees.

Harper blamed the contractor – Green Philippine Nursery Plant – and said she did not order them to do work beyond what the permit stated. The IA got a permit in May to cut certain trees in the plaza fronting the Manila Cathedral for a landscaping project.

Eight narra and two mahogany trees were recommended for balling while 17 trees consisting of nine neem trees, six mango trees, one jackfruit tree, and one atis tree were recommended for cutting by the DENR. The department alleged 29 trees were cut.

Reyes, however, said his visual inspection showed only 17, not 29, trees were cut. He added that based on the results of the probe, the city government might file appropriate charges.

Meanwhile, Environment Secretary Lito Atienza advised Harper Thursday to hire the best lawyer to defend herself.

Atienza said Harper would be held liable under the principle of command responsibility.

He said, “She (Harper) should tell the truth. Unless she can extricate herself from command responsibility somebody has to answer for those illegally cut trees or massacred trees.”

Harper, a staunch environmentalist, has apologized for the cutting of the trees.

Presidential Decree 953 penalizes the unauthorized cutting, destruction, damaging and injuring of certain trees, plants and vegetation.

Atienza shrugged off Harper’s claim that the filing of charges against her was “politically motivated” since she opposed Atienza’s order when he was then Manila mayor to cut down trees in Arroceros Park and Mehan Garden.

Lim orders probe on tree-cutting

It’s command responsibility, says DENR (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/metro/view_article.php?article_id=158749)

By Allison Lopez, TJ Burgonio
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:12am (Mla time) 09/05/2008


MANILA, Philippines – Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim ordered the City Hall police detachment to conduct an independent investigation of the controversial tree-cutting incident at Plaza Roma in Intramuros.

Sr. Insp. Marcelo Reyes, chief of the investigation and follow-up branch of the District Special Project Unit, said that although the city government recognized that Intramuros was a separate entity, the mayor was concerned about the unnecessary felling of trees, including narra and mahogany, on Aug. 25 by the Intramuros Administration.

The IA, created by Presidential Decree 1616, has jurisdiction over the historic area, also referred to as Walled City.

“Since Intramuros is within the territorial jurisdiction of Manila, the mayor believes we should know something about it. We are still in the process of collating evidence such as the bidding contract and the rehabilitation plan. I have talked to the wife of contractor Fernando Simborio who said they really intended to ball the trees,” Reyes told the Inquirer.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources said earlier it could file charges against Intramuros administrator Anna Maria “Bambi” Harper for violating the permit they gave. In a statement, the DENR said it had issued a notice of violation and gave Harper seven days to explain why no charges should be filed against her.

If found guilty, Harper could face a two-year imprisonment term or a P5,000 fine, or both, said Corazon Davis, executive director of the DENR in Metro Manila.

The DENR is also looking into the liability of the contractor hired by the IA, and owner of the chainsaw used to cut the trees.

Harper blamed the contractor – Green Philippine Nursery Plant – and said she did not order them to do work beyond what the permit stated. The IA got a permit in May to cut certain trees in the plaza fronting the Manila Cathedral for a landscaping project.

Eight narra and two mahogany trees were recommended for balling while 17 trees consisting of nine neem trees, six mango trees, one jackfruit tree, and one atis tree were recommended for cutting by the DENR. The department alleged 29 trees were cut.

Reyes, however, said his visual inspection showed only 17, not 29, trees were cut. He added that based on the results of the probe, the city government might file appropriate charges.

Meanwhile, Environment Secretary Lito Atienza advised Harper Thursday to hire the best lawyer to defend herself.

Atienza said Harper would be held liable under the principle of command responsibility.

He said, “She (Harper) should tell the truth. Unless she can extricate herself from command responsibility somebody has to answer for those illegally cut trees or massacred trees.”

Harper, a staunch environmentalist, has apologized for the cutting of the trees.

Presidential Decree 953 penalizes the unauthorized cutting, destruction, damaging and injuring of certain trees, plants and vegetation.

Atienza shrugged off Harper’s claim that the filing of charges against her was “politically motivated” since she opposed Atienza’s order when he was then Manila mayor to cut down trees in Arroceros Park and Mehan Garden.

^^ Sabotage nga. May araw din yang si Lim at Atienza. The universe is fair and just. I always believe that.

^^ Sabotage nga. May araw din yang si Lim at Atienza. The universe is fair and just. I always believe that.

Talagang mukhang pini-personal ni Atienza si Ms. Harper. Former Mayor Atienza must be relishing the moment and will not let this one pass. The gall!!!!!!!! of some people talaga.

I declare my support for Ms. Harper.

Talagang mukhang pini-personal ni Atienza si Ms. Harper. Former Mayor Atienza must be relishing the moment and will not let this one pass. The gall!!!!!!!! of some people talaga.

I declare my support for Ms. Harper.

^^Ang masasabi ko lang ke Atienza,Remember Arroceros Forest Park!!!and regarding IA,I know Ms. Harper will be vindicated in the end.The epals & talangka minded will try to bring her down,but she's one tough cookie.The tree cutting was an unfortunate incident,they could have moved it somewhere.But definitely Plaza Roma needs better landscaping,as the trees were covering the view of the Cathedral.

^^Ang masasabi ko lang ke Atienza,Remember Arroceros Forest Park!!!and regarding IA,I know Ms. Harper will be vindicated in the end.The epals & talangka minded will try to bring her down,but she's one tough cookie.The tree cutting was an unfortunate incident,they could have moved it somewhere.But definitely Plaza Roma needs better landscaping,as the trees were covering the view of the Cathedral.

The Flame trees aren't red and orange the whole year round. They are green most of the time but blossom in full when it's summer. If we have those to mark the advent of summer, we can have something similar to Japan and Korea's Cherry Blossom Festival.

Summer is a hot season so it's only right that people see more green than flaming reds and oranges. Green will have a good psychological cool down effect to the eyes theagainst the hot weather. Flaming warm colors are more appropriate during cool seasons from November to February but those months are not the flowering season for the flame tree.

In the States, the flaming colors of maple tree leaves are very appropriate during the AUTUMN when the weather is cool as it psychologically warms up the spirit.

Cherry blossoms bloom during Springtime when the weather is cool and the colors varies from white to pink which give a subtle effect to the eye.

The trees found in tropical places should not be compared with the ones in northern hemisphere because they do not exude the same effect due to the big difference on the weather factor. If you want nice flowering trees in the Philippines during the summer, then white, pinkish, & yellowish kalachuchi or yellow bell trees will be more appropriate but green-leaves' trees should be there all year round.

Therefore Bamby Harper and company should replaced the trees that were cut off with alternate Greens and Flame trees and fragrant flowering trees like kalachuchi and ylang-ylang and the nice yellow bells.

The Flame trees aren't red and orange the whole year round. They are green most of the time but blossom in full when it's summer. If we have those to mark the advent of summer, we can have something similar to Japan and Korea's Cherry Blossom Festival.

Summer is a hot season so it's only right that people see more green than flaming reds and oranges. Green will have a good psychological cool down effect to the eyes theagainst the hot weather. Flaming warm colors are more appropriate during cool seasons from November to February but those months are not the flowering season for the flame tree.

In the States, the flaming colors of maple tree leaves are very appropriate during the AUTUMN when the weather is cool as it psychologically warms up the spirit.

Cherry blossoms bloom during Springtime when the weather is cool and the colors varies from white to pink which give a subtle effect to the eye.

The trees found in tropical places should not be compared with the ones in northern hemisphere because they do not exude the same effect due to the big difference on the weather factor. If you want nice flowering trees in the Philippines during the summer, then white, pinkish, & yellowish kalachuchi or yellow bell trees will be more appropriate but green-leaves' trees should be there all year round.

Therefore Bamby Harper and company should replaced the trees that were cut off with alternate Greens and Flame trees and fragrant flowering trees like kalachuchi and ylang-ylang and the nice yellow bells.

Gardening na ito ha.

Gardening na ito ha.

Gardening na ito ha.

:lol:

Manila mayor absolves IA head (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/metro/view/20080906-158976/Manila-mayor-absolves-IA-head)

But contractor faces charges for tree-cutting
By Allison Lopez
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:44:00 09/06/2008

MANILA, Philippines – The Manila City government Friday found Intramuros Administration chief Anna Maria “Bambi” Harper not liable for the cutting of several trees at Plaza Roma.

However, the city said it would press charges against the contractor.

Sr. Insp. Marcelo Reyes, of the District Special Project Unit, said the contractor, Fernando Simborio of Green Philippine Nursery Plant, would be charged on Monday with five counts of violation of Presidential Decree 953, specifically Sec. 3 that states: “Any person who cuts, destroys, damages or injures naturally growing or planted trees of any kind shall be punished with imprisonment of no less than six months and not more than two years, or a fine of not less than P500 and not more than P5,000, or with both such imprisonment and fine at the discretion of the court.”

The contractor will also be charged with 29 counts of violation of RA 9172 (Chainsaw Act) for using a chainsaw without a permit to cut the trees.

Mayor Alfredo Lim said the independent probe conducted by City Hall police found no evidence that Harper ordered Simborio to go beyond the limits set by a permit issued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Lim said he saw no wrongdoing on Harper’s part. “She’s an advocate of environmental issues. We have to give her the benefit of the doubt knowing her background.”

The mayor said Harper, former president of the Heritage Conservation Society, sought a DENR clearance before starting the project.

“She went out of her way to get the clearance from DENR. She trusted the contractor but, without her knowledge and consent, the trees were cut,” Lim added.

The mayor said the plaza fronting Manila Cathedral was “city-owned” giving authorities the right to investigate the incident.

Reyes found that Simborio’s company was awarded the contract in May for the P400,000 landscaping project.

Harper first sought a permit from DENR NCR Regional Executive Director Corazon Davis for permission “to cut some of the trees at Plaza Roma (fronting Manila Cathedral), Intramuros, Manila, and ball out/transfer other trees to various plazas/areas in Intramuros.” She assured the DENR that these would be replaced with “historically appropriate trees.”

The DENR had recommended the balling of eight narra and two mahogany trees and the cutting of 17 trees consisting of nine neem, six mangos, one jackfruit and one atis.

On Aug. 25, however, the contractor cut 29 trees. Reyes’ report said two narra trees and one mahogany tree were cut apart from two trees (Indian and fire) not covered by the permit.

The report said Green Plant “lacked expertise,” recklessly cutting the trunks with a chainsaw.

Reyes said Simborio’s wife Ligaya told him they intended to ball the narra and mahogany trees, but DENR director Ali Barry of Urban Forest Services said the “balling was inappropriately done since only the top part of the trees should have been cut, trimmed and sliced and not the trunk.”

It was also found that the operation was done on a holiday “without notice” to the IA or DENR so there was no supervision by the government agencies.

Gardening na ito ha.

:lol:

Manila mayor absolves IA head (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/metro/view/20080906-158976/Manila-mayor-absolves-IA-head)

But contractor faces charges for tree-cutting
By Allison Lopez
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:44:00 09/06/2008

MANILA, Philippines – The Manila City government Friday found Intramuros Administration chief Anna Maria “Bambi” Harper not liable for the cutting of several trees at Plaza Roma.

However, the city said it would press charges against the contractor.

Sr. Insp. Marcelo Reyes, of the District Special Project Unit, said the contractor, Fernando Simborio of Green Philippine Nursery Plant, would be charged on Monday with five counts of violation of Presidential Decree 953, specifically Sec. 3 that states: “Any person who cuts, destroys, damages or injures naturally growing or planted trees of any kind shall be punished with imprisonment of no less than six months and not more than two years, or a fine of not less than P500 and not more than P5,000, or with both such imprisonment and fine at the discretion of the court.”

The contractor will also be charged with 29 counts of violation of RA 9172 (Chainsaw Act) for using a chainsaw without a permit to cut the trees.

Mayor Alfredo Lim said the independent probe conducted by City Hall police found no evidence that Harper ordered Simborio to go beyond the limits set by a permit issued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Lim said he saw no wrongdoing on Harper’s part. “She’s an advocate of environmental issues. We have to give her the benefit of the doubt knowing her background.”

The mayor said Harper, former president of the Heritage Conservation Society, sought a DENR clearance before starting the project.

“She went out of her way to get the clearance from DENR. She trusted the contractor but, without her knowledge and consent, the trees were cut,” Lim added.

The mayor said the plaza fronting Manila Cathedral was “city-owned” giving authorities the right to investigate the incident.

Reyes found that Simborio’s company was awarded the contract in May for the P400,000 landscaping project.

Harper first sought a permit from DENR NCR Regional Executive Director Corazon Davis for permission “to cut some of the trees at Plaza Roma (fronting Manila Cathedral), Intramuros, Manila, and ball out/transfer other trees to various plazas/areas in Intramuros.” She assured the DENR that these would be replaced with “historically appropriate trees.”

The DENR had recommended the balling of eight narra and two mahogany trees and the cutting of 17 trees consisting of nine neem, six mangos, one jackfruit and one atis.

On Aug. 25, however, the contractor cut 29 trees. Reyes’ report said two narra trees and one mahogany tree were cut apart from two trees (Indian and fire) not covered by the permit.

The report said Green Plant “lacked expertise,” recklessly cutting the trunks with a chainsaw.

Reyes said Simborio’s wife Ligaya told him they intended to ball the narra and mahogany trees, but DENR director Ali Barry of Urban Forest Services said the “balling was inappropriately done since only the top part of the trees should have been cut, trimmed and sliced and not the trunk.”

It was also found that the operation was done on a holiday “without notice” to the IA or DENR so there was no supervision by the government agencies.

Isa lang masasabi ko, nag-iiba na talaga ang pagpapahalaga ng mga politiko sa puno kapag kaaway nila ang makakasira nito. To think na nung time nila, mas marami pa silang naputol na puno. Hypocrites. :lol:

Isa lang masasabi ko, nag-iiba na talaga ang pagpapahalaga ng mga politiko sa puno kapag kaaway nila ang makakasira nito. To think na nung time nila, mas marami pa silang naputol na puno. Hypocrites. :lol:

Intramuros head not yet off hook – environment chief

By TJ Burgonio
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 19:49:00 09/06/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Environment Secretary Lito Atienza on Saturday pooh-poohed Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim's pronouncement clearing the head of the Intramuros Administration of any liability in the cutting of trees in Plaza Roma fronting the Manila Cathedral.

"How can he clear anyone when the case is still being investigated by the proper department, which is the DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources)?" Atienza said in a phone interview.

Atienza, a political rival of Lim in Manila, said the mayor's pronouncement would not influence the outcome of the DENR's investigation of the cutting of 29 trees in Plaza Roma.

"The precipitate, hurried opinion does not change the course of our investigation, and the case, if warranted, would be lodged with the green courts that are in place to handle environmental laws," he said.

Lim, citing the city government's investigation, had said there was no evidence that Intramuros Administrator Anna Maria "Bambi" Harper ordered the contractor to go beyond the limits set by a DENR permit for the tree-cutting.

The city government, however, said the contractor, Fernando Simborio of Green Philippine Nursery Plants, would be charged with violations of Presidential Decree 953, which penalizes a person who cuts, damages, or injures a tree.

The DENR has asked Harper to explain the tree-cutting and threatened to file similar charges against her under the principle of command responsibility.



Harper could face a two-year jail term or pay a fine of P5,000 or both under Section 3 of PD 953.

Harper, according to the DENR, was given a permit to cut 27 trees but ended up cutting 29. The DENR has issued Harper a notice of violations of four of 10 rules set in the permit, including failure to coordinate with barangay (village) officials.

Harper had denied issuing orders for the tree-cutting.

"This case rightfully belongs to the green court, and should be prosecuted by the green tanodbayan since Harper is a government official,'' Atienza said.

He added: “The law should apply to all, as generally bandied in Manila. As they say, ‘Otherwise, none at all.’”

Meanwhile, Joey Papa, president of Bangon Kalikasan, twitted Atienza for his double standard on environmental protection.

While he has questioned the cutting of trees in the Manila plaza, Atienza has not stopped moves to cut trees along McArthur Highway in Bulacan and Mt. Kanlaon National Park in Negros Occidental, he said.

Atienza even failed to stop the Quezon City government from destroying trees in front of the DENR building to give way to a brick sidewalk, he added.

“Stop cutting all remaining trees. Our forest cover is down to 15 percent and global warming is intensifying,'' Papa said.
With a report by Tina G. Santos.


Copyright 2008 Philippine Daily Inquirer. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/metro/view/20080906-159101/Intramuros-head-not-yet-off-hook--environment-chief

Intramuros head not yet off hook – environment chief

By TJ Burgonio
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 19:49:00 09/06/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Environment Secretary Lito Atienza on Saturday pooh-poohed Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim's pronouncement clearing the head of the Intramuros Administration of any liability in the cutting of trees in Plaza Roma fronting the Manila Cathedral.

"How can he clear anyone when the case is still being investigated by the proper department, which is the DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources)?" Atienza said in a phone interview.

Atienza, a political rival of Lim in Manila, said the mayor's pronouncement would not influence the outcome of the DENR's investigation of the cutting of 29 trees in Plaza Roma.

"The precipitate, hurried opinion does not change the course of our investigation, and the case, if warranted, would be lodged with the green courts that are in place to handle environmental laws," he said.

Lim, citing the city government's investigation, had said there was no evidence that Intramuros Administrator Anna Maria "Bambi" Harper ordered the contractor to go beyond the limits set by a DENR permit for the tree-cutting.

The city government, however, said the contractor, Fernando Simborio of Green Philippine Nursery Plants, would be charged with violations of Presidential Decree 953, which penalizes a person who cuts, damages, or injures a tree.

The DENR has asked Harper to explain the tree-cutting and threatened to file similar charges against her under the principle of command responsibility.



Harper could face a two-year jail term or pay a fine of P5,000 or both under Section 3 of PD 953.

Harper, according to the DENR, was given a permit to cut 27 trees but ended up cutting 29. The DENR has issued Harper a notice of violations of four of 10 rules set in the permit, including failure to coordinate with barangay (village) officials.

Harper had denied issuing orders for the tree-cutting.

"This case rightfully belongs to the green court, and should be prosecuted by the green tanodbayan since Harper is a government official,'' Atienza said.

He added: “The law should apply to all, as generally bandied in Manila. As they say, ‘Otherwise, none at all.’”

Meanwhile, Joey Papa, president of Bangon Kalikasan, twitted Atienza for his double standard on environmental protection.

While he has questioned the cutting of trees in the Manila plaza, Atienza has not stopped moves to cut trees along McArthur Highway in Bulacan and Mt. Kanlaon National Park in Negros Occidental, he said.

Atienza even failed to stop the Quezon City government from destroying trees in front of the DENR building to give way to a brick sidewalk, he added.

“Stop cutting all remaining trees. Our forest cover is down to 15 percent and global warming is intensifying,'' Papa said.
With a report by Tina G. Santos.


Copyright 2008 Philippine Daily Inquirer. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/metro/view/20080906-159101/Intramuros-head-not-yet-off-hook--environment-chief

OPEN NOTEBOOK
By Random Jottings (http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/sep/08/yehey/opinion/20080908opi3.html)

EARLY lexicographers must have had the likes of Anna Maria “Bambi” Harper in mind when they thought up the word “redoubtable.” She is one formidable gal—but far too refined and elegant to pick a fight with anyone. But take her on and you will soon find out that you’ve got more than a fight on your hands —especially if it concerns an environmental issue where her credibility is being skewered.

Let’s make no bones about it. President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s hand-picked choice for the post, Intramuros Administration chief Harper, is (to quote the newest star of the US political scene, Republican vice presidential pick Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, who used the term to describe herself as a fierce hockey mom) “a pit-bull with lipstick.”

So the piranhas sensing blood and going around in frenzied circles in the hope of feasting once again on the nation’s heritage (like they did in the previous decade before their crooked activities were severely curtailed when Harper took over the IA) had better be cautioned against biting more than they could possibly chew.

It’s painfully ironic that the first crisis in Harper’s short but thus far dynamic tenure at the IA should concern the illegal chopping down of trees, considering that she has established impeccable credentials in the Philippines as a staunch advocate of the environment—as Environment Secretary Lito Atienza can attest since Harper was his nemesis when he, as Mayor of Manila, was ordering the chopping down of trees at historic Mehan Garden and Arroceros Forest Park to make way for some concrete monstrosity.

How supremely rich then for the Atienza-led DENR (do we see an attempt to settle old public relations scores here?) to heap opprobrium on Harper—and seriously question her green credentials while they are at it—over the accidental cutting down of six narra and two mahogany trees in Plaza Roma that were supposed to be balled and re-planted in Fort Santiago.

The DENR permit obtained by the IA granted the cutting down of 17 trees in that area opposite Manila Cathedral to make way for a landscaping project that is intended to replace the trees with, to quote the IA, “historically appropriate” caballero trees (or flame trees as the Spanish called them) that would not block the façade of Manila Cathedral.

The instructions given to the Batangas contractor who was awarded the P400,000 contract, Green Philippine Nursery Plant, was explicit. But for some inexplicable reason bordering on total ignorance the company’s workers chopped down the wrong trees.

What is not being reported in this controversy is that a long standing IA employee who should have known better actually gave the nod to the contractor to go-ahead and do the dreaded deed without even contacting Harper. And since there have been questions raised about the real loyalties of some long established staff with well entrenched habits at the IA—where Harper has been cleansing the Augean Stable that was the IA inside out since her arrival—perhaps the unilateral action of that staffer needs closer scrutiny.

A shell-shocked Harper issued a statement which opened with the line: “First and foremost, we owe the Filipino people, who own Intramuros, a deep apology, which we do extend most sincerely for this unfortunate incident.”

She went on: “I rely on my reputation established as a heritage conservator and preserver of trees—the Arroceros Forest Park and the former Mehan Garden and of historic structures like the Jai-Alai—to support my credibility in this instance. I, as head of Intramuros Administration, did not authorize the cutting or damaging of the trees in question.

“Violation of Section 3 of Presidential Decree No. 953, under which the DENR notice said I could be held responsible, is a criminal offense. The person or persons who actually cut or ordered the cutting, of the trees, are, I was advised by counsel, therefore the ones who may be liable. I understand that under our system of laws, criminal liability is personal.

“Having said all of the above, we would like to inform the public that we had intended and intend to, with the help of donations from tree lovers to plant over 200 flame trees in Intra*muros for the enjoyment of the Filipino people this month of September.”

There she may well rest her case.

OPEN NOTEBOOK
By Random Jottings (http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/sep/08/yehey/opinion/20080908opi3.html)

EARLY lexicographers must have had the likes of Anna Maria “Bambi” Harper in mind when they thought up the word “redoubtable.” She is one formidable gal—but far too refined and elegant to pick a fight with anyone. But take her on and you will soon find out that you’ve got more than a fight on your hands —especially if it concerns an environmental issue where her credibility is being skewered.

Let’s make no bones about it. President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s hand-picked choice for the post, Intramuros Administration chief Harper, is (to quote the newest star of the US political scene, Republican vice presidential pick Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, who used the term to describe herself as a fierce hockey mom) “a pit-bull with lipstick.”

So the piranhas sensing blood and going around in frenzied circles in the hope of feasting once again on the nation’s heritage (like they did in the previous decade before their crooked activities were severely curtailed when Harper took over the IA) had better be cautioned against biting more than they could possibly chew.

It’s painfully ironic that the first crisis in Harper’s short but thus far dynamic tenure at the IA should concern the illegal chopping down of trees, considering that she has established impeccable credentials in the Philippines as a staunch advocate of the environment—as Environment Secretary Lito Atienza can attest since Harper was his nemesis when he, as Mayor of Manila, was ordering the chopping down of trees at historic Mehan Garden and Arroceros Forest Park to make way for some concrete monstrosity.

How supremely rich then for the Atienza-led DENR (do we see an attempt to settle old public relations scores here?) to heap opprobrium on Harper—and seriously question her green credentials while they are at it—over the accidental cutting down of six narra and two mahogany trees in Plaza Roma that were supposed to be balled and re-planted in Fort Santiago.

The DENR permit obtained by the IA granted the cutting down of 17 trees in that area opposite Manila Cathedral to make way for a landscaping project that is intended to replace the trees with, to quote the IA, “historically appropriate” caballero trees (or flame trees as the Spanish called them) that would not block the façade of Manila Cathedral.

The instructions given to the Batangas contractor who was awarded the P400,000 contract, Green Philippine Nursery Plant, was explicit. But for some inexplicable reason bordering on total ignorance the company’s workers chopped down the wrong trees.

What is not being reported in this controversy is that a long standing IA employee who should have known better actually gave the nod to the contractor to go-ahead and do the dreaded deed without even contacting Harper. And since there have been questions raised about the real loyalties of some long established staff with well entrenched habits at the IA—where Harper has been cleansing the Augean Stable that was the IA inside out since her arrival—perhaps the unilateral action of that staffer needs closer scrutiny.

A shell-shocked Harper issued a statement which opened with the line: “First and foremost, we owe the Filipino people, who own Intramuros, a deep apology, which we do extend most sincerely for this unfortunate incident.”

She went on: “I rely on my reputation established as a heritage conservator and preserver of trees—the Arroceros Forest Park and the former Mehan Garden and of historic structures like the Jai-Alai—to support my credibility in this instance. I, as head of Intramuros Administration, did not authorize the cutting or damaging of the trees in question.

“Violation of Section 3 of Presidential Decree No. 953, under which the DENR notice said I could be held responsible, is a criminal offense. The person or persons who actually cut or ordered the cutting, of the trees, are, I was advised by counsel, therefore the ones who may be liable. I understand that under our system of laws, criminal liability is personal.

“Having said all of the above, we would like to inform the public that we had intended and intend to, with the help of donations from tree lovers to plant over 200 flame trees in Intra*muros for the enjoyment of the Filipino people this month of September.”

There she may well rest her case.

Graft charges filed vs Harper, contractor (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Metro&p=49&type=2&sec=26&aid=2008090999)
By Edu Punay
Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Intramuros Administrator Anna Maria Harper was slapped with graft and other charges yesterday before the Office of the Ombudsman for cutting 10 decades-old and endangered trees at the Plaza Roma in Manila last month.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), through its executive director for National Capital Region Corazon Davis, filed the six-page complaint and accused Harper of violating Presidential Decree 953 (Act on unauthorized cutting of trees), R.A. 9175 (Act on acquisition and use chainsaw) and R.A. 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act).

“Being the administrator of Intramuros Administration, respondent Harper was remiss and grossly negligent in her obligation to see to it that the permit issued to IA, through her and upon her request, should have been strictly observed, to the prejudice and detriment of the government and the public,” the complaint stated.

Davis was referring to violations of conditions set in the tree-moving permit issued by DENR to IA for balling of eight Narra trees and two Mahogany trees and for cutting 19 Neem, Mango, Langka and Atis trees.

Meanwhile, the Manila City government has filed charges against the contractor hired by IA for non-compliance of conditions set by the DENR on cutting of trees in Plaza Roma.

Slapped with charges for violation of RA 9175 (or the Chainsaw Act) and Presidential Decree 953 was Fernando Simborio, 47, contractor of the Green Philippine Nursery Plant.

Last Monday, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim defended Harper, saying the IA chief was not aware of the cutting as it was done on Aug. 25, a holiday.

He added that according to the contract, a supervisor was supposed to be monitoring the cutting “but that did not happen.”

Part of the contract was also the landscaping of Plaza Roma to provide a better view of the Manila Cathedral. – With Sandy Araneta

Graft charges filed vs Harper, contractor (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Metro&p=49&type=2&sec=26&aid=2008090999)
By Edu Punay
Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Intramuros Administrator Anna Maria Harper was slapped with graft and other charges yesterday before the Office of the Ombudsman for cutting 10 decades-old and endangered trees at the Plaza Roma in Manila last month.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), through its executive director for National Capital Region Corazon Davis, filed the six-page complaint and accused Harper of violating Presidential Decree 953 (Act on unauthorized cutting of trees), R.A. 9175 (Act on acquisition and use chainsaw) and R.A. 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act).

“Being the administrator of Intramuros Administration, respondent Harper was remiss and grossly negligent in her obligation to see to it that the permit issued to IA, through her and upon her request, should have been strictly observed, to the prejudice and detriment of the government and the public,” the complaint stated.

Davis was referring to violations of conditions set in the tree-moving permit issued by DENR to IA for balling of eight Narra trees and two Mahogany trees and for cutting 19 Neem, Mango, Langka and Atis trees.

Meanwhile, the Manila City government has filed charges against the contractor hired by IA for non-compliance of conditions set by the DENR on cutting of trees in Plaza Roma.

Slapped with charges for violation of RA 9175 (or the Chainsaw Act) and Presidential Decree 953 was Fernando Simborio, 47, contractor of the Green Philippine Nursery Plant.

Last Monday, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim defended Harper, saying the IA chief was not aware of the cutting as it was done on Aug. 25, a holiday.

He added that according to the contract, a supervisor was supposed to be monitoring the cutting “but that did not happen.”

Part of the contract was also the landscaping of Plaza Roma to provide a better view of the Manila Cathedral. – With Sandy Araneta

OT but let me post here for contrast...

Atienza denying ZTE, but liable for mess (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinion&p=49&type=2&sec=25&aid=20080909159)
GOTCHA By Jarius Bondoc
Wednesday, September 10, 2008

In denying ZTE Corp.’s gold mining in Diwalwal, Environment and Natural Resource Sec. Lito Atienza at first claimed there’s no record on file. But reminded that Trade and Industry Sec. Peter Favila no less swore at the Senate having signed a memo of understanding, he groped for another line. An MOU is a mere invitation to invest, he snorted, so it’s in no way binding on the government.

Atienza represents the Arroyo admin whose word cannot be trusted. He is so much like the Malacañang spokesmen who flip-flop by the day in justifying the territorial pact with Moro separatists. The only difference is that Atienza is easily caught fibbing.

Favila’s MOU of July 12, 2006 does not only invite. Signed with ZTE Int’l president Yu Yong, it specifies Diwalwal mining as one of five projects in a $4-billion deal. The other four are North Davao mining, an export zone in Davao City, an info-tech school, and the infamous $329-million national broadband network. The wording belies Atienza’s claim of an MOU being nothing. Section 2.1.2.1 states: “The GRP, particularly the DoF, DTI, DILG, DENR, DoTC, DBM, NEDA, and all other government agencies and offices shall provide all necessary assistance for development and implementation of the investment projects.”

Will Atienza state that pesky Favila went beyond the inviting that an MOU is limited to relay? There’s nothing wrong with mimicking the Palace alibi that its peace talkers went beyond their power in initialing the Moro pact. Atienza could even strengthen Atty. Harry Roque’s case against Favila for violating the Constitution rule on Filipino exclusivity over mines.

But wait. Favila did have full clout, which further debunks Atienza’s mocking of MOUs. On the same day Favila signed, President Gloria Arroyo covered him with a special authority “to negotiate, conclude and sign” with ZTE. Further, “to make, execute and deliver any deed and other document of whatsoever kind and nature which may be necessary for the purpose of executing or implementing.” Aside from Arroyo’s signature on that paper is Executive Sec. Ed Ermita’s too.

Incidentally, signing as MOU witnesses were ZTE chairman Hou Weigui and then-presidential chief of staff Mike Defensor. Since the latter is party mate and predecessor at DENR, Atienza can readily ask about ZTE’s entry in Diwalwal. He can also ask Arroyo, who accompanied Yu and Hou to Davao around the time of the MOU signing.

* * *

There’s a bigger issue Atienza must answer in Diwalwal. Specifically, what is he doing about pollution inside that 8,100-hectare forest reserve? What is he doing about destruction of forests in Masara, also in Compostela Valley, that caused this week’s and last year’s deadly landslides?

The questions arise in light of P.D. 1559 that amends the Forestry Code. The law penalizes anyone who aids and abets forest degradation by commission or omission. If a public official, the culprit shall be dismissed from the service and perpetually barred from holding appointive or elective position.

Mercury poisoning of forests, rivers and farms due to crude mining methods in Diwalwal has long been known. The gold rush area is only 729 hectares, but its trail of ruin extends up to 30 miles of the Naboc and Hijo rivers that flow down the mountainsides. A 1999 inquiry by the Senate health and environment committees elicited info that mercury in Naboc waters exceeded the World Health Organization’s tolerable level of 2 parts per billion. The DENR monitored the main tributaries to contain 132 ppb of mercury, or up to 66 times the danger point. The Mines and Geosciences Bureau, aided by the British Geological Services, placed mercury sediment in both Naboc and Hijo at 850,000 ppb, way above the permissible 5 ppb.

Cyanide and tailings add to the devastation, according to studies by the British agency and the Mindanao State University. Farms parch and cattle perish in the plains onto which the two rivers flow, and as they merge with also contaminate Agusan River and Butuan Bay. Upstream, trees and undergrowth choke. And Diwalwal’s tens of thousands of small miners are sick or dying of unchecked waste, according to the Philippine Mining Development Corp., another DENR agency.

Atienza must tell the country: has he licensed those miners? If yes, why is he not regulating their pollutive operations? If no, why does he let them infest and kill cattle, fish and trees?

In Masara 50 miles south, 16 people died this week when mud from North Davao mines buried the village of Maco. There too, forests have been denuded. What has Atienza done about it since taking office in July 2007?

If he says he only inherited the problem, then Atienza should sue Defensor and other predecessors under P.D. 1559. Even Arroyo knows of the pollution. She used it as excuse to declare Diwalwal a mineral reserve for awarding to ZTE.

* * *
E-mail: jariusbondoc@workmail.com

OT but let me post here for contrast...

Atienza denying ZTE, but liable for mess (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinion&p=49&type=2&sec=25&aid=20080909159)
GOTCHA By Jarius Bondoc
Wednesday, September 10, 2008

In denying ZTE Corp.’s gold mining in Diwalwal, Environment and Natural Resource Sec. Lito Atienza at first claimed there’s no record on file. But reminded that Trade and Industry Sec. Peter Favila no less swore at the Senate having signed a memo of understanding, he groped for another line. An MOU is a mere invitation to invest, he snorted, so it’s in no way binding on the government.

Atienza represents the Arroyo admin whose word cannot be trusted. He is so much like the Malacañang spokesmen who flip-flop by the day in justifying the territorial pact with Moro separatists. The only difference is that Atienza is easily caught fibbing.

Favila’s MOU of July 12, 2006 does not only invite. Signed with ZTE Int’l president Yu Yong, it specifies Diwalwal mining as one of five projects in a $4-billion deal. The other four are North Davao mining, an export zone in Davao City, an info-tech school, and the infamous $329-million national broadband network. The wording belies Atienza’s claim of an MOU being nothing. Section 2.1.2.1 states: “The GRP, particularly the DoF, DTI, DILG, DENR, DoTC, DBM, NEDA, and all other government agencies and offices shall provide all necessary assistance for development and implementation of the investment projects.”

Will Atienza state that pesky Favila went beyond the inviting that an MOU is limited to relay? There’s nothing wrong with mimicking the Palace alibi that its peace talkers went beyond their power in initialing the Moro pact. Atienza could even strengthen Atty. Harry Roque’s case against Favila for violating the Constitution rule on Filipino exclusivity over mines.

But wait. Favila did have full clout, which further debunks Atienza’s mocking of MOUs. On the same day Favila signed, President Gloria Arroyo covered him with a special authority “to negotiate, conclude and sign” with ZTE. Further, “to make, execute and deliver any deed and other document of whatsoever kind and nature which may be necessary for the purpose of executing or implementing.” Aside from Arroyo’s signature on that paper is Executive Sec. Ed Ermita’s too.

Incidentally, signing as MOU witnesses were ZTE chairman Hou Weigui and then-presidential chief of staff Mike Defensor. Since the latter is party mate and predecessor at DENR, Atienza can readily ask about ZTE’s entry in Diwalwal. He can also ask Arroyo, who accompanied Yu and Hou to Davao around the time of the MOU signing.

* * *

There’s a bigger issue Atienza must answer in Diwalwal. Specifically, what is he doing about pollution inside that 8,100-hectare forest reserve? What is he doing about destruction of forests in Masara, also in Compostela Valley, that caused this week’s and last year’s deadly landslides?

The questions arise in light of P.D. 1559 that amends the Forestry Code. The law penalizes anyone who aids and abets forest degradation by commission or omission. If a public official, the culprit shall be dismissed from the service and perpetually barred from holding appointive or elective position.

Mercury poisoning of forests, rivers and farms due to crude mining methods in Diwalwal has long been known. The gold rush area is only 729 hectares, but its trail of ruin extends up to 30 miles of the Naboc and Hijo rivers that flow down the mountainsides. A 1999 inquiry by the Senate health and environment committees elicited info that mercury in Naboc waters exceeded the World Health Organization’s tolerable level of 2 parts per billion. The DENR monitored the main tributaries to contain 132 ppb of mercury, or up to 66 times the danger point. The Mines and Geosciences Bureau, aided by the British Geological Services, placed mercury sediment in both Naboc and Hijo at 850,000 ppb, way above the permissible 5 ppb.

Cyanide and tailings add to the devastation, according to studies by the British agency and the Mindanao State University. Farms parch and cattle perish in the plains onto which the two rivers flow, and as they merge with also contaminate Agusan River and Butuan Bay. Upstream, trees and undergrowth choke. And Diwalwal’s tens of thousands of small miners are sick or dying of unchecked waste, according to the Philippine Mining Development Corp., another DENR agency.

Atienza must tell the country: has he licensed those miners? If yes, why is he not regulating their pollutive operations? If no, why does he let them infest and kill cattle, fish and trees?

In Masara 50 miles south, 16 people died this week when mud from North Davao mines buried the village of Maco. There too, forests have been denuded. What has Atienza done about it since taking office in July 2007?

If he says he only inherited the problem, then Atienza should sue Defensor and other predecessors under P.D. 1559. Even Arroyo knows of the pollution. She used it as excuse to declare Diwalwal a mineral reserve for awarding to ZTE.

* * *
E-mail: jariusbondoc@workmail.com

Manila's historic Spanish quarter to get a makeover

http://business.inquirer.net/money/breakingnews/view/20080919-161663/Manilas-historic-Spanish-quarter-to-get-a-makeover

Reuters
First Posted 14:25:00 09/19/2008

SINGAPORE -- It outlasted centuries of colonial Spanish rule, was almost wiped out in World War Two, and now the historic, and neglected, heart of Manila is poised to beat again under a widescale restoration plan.

The 16th century quarter of Intramuros, translated as "within the walls", is located along the south bank of the Pasig River and was the fortress-like district from where the Spanish ruled the Philippines for over three centuries.

Yet despite its rich history, it rarely features on the itinerary of tourists to the country, who often prefer to skip crowded Manila altogether and head to the tropical beaches.

In a bid to attract visitors, the Intramuros Administration, with a new team, is reviving a plan to clean up and preserve the quarter, which includes structural repairs as well as removing squatters and making it more secure.

"In September, we intend to put a roof over the Almacenes Reales and some windows, so it can be used," said Anna Maria Harper, the new head of the administration, referring to the former royal warehouse at the area's Fort Santiago.

"It's not quite a restoration, but it's a pity to have something like that and not do anything with it," she said, adding that there are also plans for a museum in the area.

Many of the structures within Intramuros were reduced to rubble during the bombardment of Manila in World War Two. Some buildings, especially the former barracks and the dungeons, were used by occupying Japanese forces as prisons.

After Warsaw in Poland, the Philippines' capital suffered the worse destruction during the conflict.

One of the buildings still standing is the Manila Cathedral, a colossal stone structure reworked in the 1950s.

Nearby, San Agustin, the oldest Baroque church in the Philippines built in the late 1500s, is also largely intact and is cherished by historians and locals for its hand-painted interior and intricately carved wooden doors.

But other structures are not as lucky.

The Convent of Santa Clara, once renowned for its reclusive nuns, is now an abandoned lot. Another church, once used as a warehouse after the Second World War, is now little more than a bombed-out shell, with young boys playing in overgrown plants where the floor used to be.

Throughout Intramuros, modern roads have been built over the old cobblestone streets, and gutters are stuffed with refuse. Crime from bordering neighborhoods spills into the quarter, raising concerns about safety.

But many in Manila hope that cleaning up Intramuros will finally bring it the recognition it deserves.

"Once the clearing up is complete, then poverty and crime decreases," said Carlos Celdran, a history enthusiast who leads walking tours in Manila. "Then there will be a boom."

Manila's historic Spanish quarter to get a makeover

http://business.inquirer.net/money/breakingnews/view/20080919-161663/Manilas-historic-Spanish-quarter-to-get-a-makeover

Reuters
First Posted 14:25:00 09/19/2008

SINGAPORE -- It outlasted centuries of colonial Spanish rule, was almost wiped out in World War Two, and now the historic, and neglected, heart of Manila is poised to beat again under a widescale restoration plan.

The 16th century quarter of Intramuros, translated as "within the walls", is located along the south bank of the Pasig River and was the fortress-like district from where the Spanish ruled the Philippines for over three centuries.

Yet despite its rich history, it rarely features on the itinerary of tourists to the country, who often prefer to skip crowded Manila altogether and head to the tropical beaches.

In a bid to attract visitors, the Intramuros Administration, with a new team, is reviving a plan to clean up and preserve the quarter, which includes structural repairs as well as removing squatters and making it more secure.

"In September, we intend to put a roof over the Almacenes Reales and some windows, so it can be used," said Anna Maria Harper, the new head of the administration, referring to the former royal warehouse at the area's Fort Santiago.

"It's not quite a restoration, but it's a pity to have something like that and not do anything with it," she said, adding that there are also plans for a museum in the area.

Many of the structures within Intramuros were reduced to rubble during the bombardment of Manila in World War Two. Some buildings, especially the former barracks and the dungeons, were used by occupying Japanese forces as prisons.

After Warsaw in Poland, the Philippines' capital suffered the worse destruction during the conflict.

One of the buildings still standing is the Manila Cathedral, a colossal stone structure reworked in the 1950s.

Nearby, San Agustin, the oldest Baroque church in the Philippines built in the late 1500s, is also largely intact and is cherished by historians and locals for its hand-painted interior and intricately carved wooden doors.

But other structures are not as lucky.

The Convent of Santa Clara, once renowned for its reclusive nuns, is now an abandoned lot. Another church, once used as a warehouse after the Second World War, is now little more than a bombed-out shell, with young boys playing in overgrown plants where the floor used to be.

Throughout Intramuros, modern roads have been built over the old cobblestone streets, and gutters are stuffed with refuse. Crime from bordering neighborhoods spills into the quarter, raising concerns about safety.

But many in Manila hope that cleaning up Intramuros will finally bring it the recognition it deserves.

"Once the clearing up is complete, then poverty and crime decreases," said Carlos Celdran, a history enthusiast who leads walking tours in Manila. "Then there will be a boom."

Intramuros is the heart of Manila – Mayor Lim (http://www.tempo.com.ph/news.php?aid=41069)

Manila Mayor Alfredo S. Lim yesterday morning expressed appreciation that Manila was restored as the capital of the Philippines – a title previously held by Quezon City.

"Manila was originally the capital city of the Philippines. This was changed and another city in Metro Manila became the capital, a distinction it held for some years. A few years ago, this was changed and again Manila became the official capital of the Philippines," the mayor said.

"This was the right step to take. History is on our side because Manila truly is the center of activity where our country is concerned. It is from this city that today’s Metro Manila, also known as the National Capital Region, emanated from," the mayor stressed.

"But Intramuros will always be the heart of Manila and Manila the outgrowth of Intramuros. One is incomplete without the other," he added.

Speaking briefly at the program "Reliving Intramuros Today" after planting trees at the Maestranza Park, the mayor said, "Historians will tell you that Intramuros was the seat of government during the Spanish times."

Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said the planning of Manila began with Miguel Lopez de Legaspi in 1571 and Intramuros was finally completed in 1606.

"This place was both a city and a fortress. For almost four centuries of Spanish rule, the Walled City of Intramuros served as the capital of their colony in Asia. This was the political, military, and religious heart of the islands," Durano said.

Durano added that in later decades, Intramuros’ role in Philippine history was solidified when it became a garrison during the Japanese occupation and a prison where Filipino soldiers and guerillas were kept and executed.

Intramuros is the heart of Manila – Mayor Lim (http://www.tempo.com.ph/news.php?aid=41069)

Manila Mayor Alfredo S. Lim yesterday morning expressed appreciation that Manila was restored as the capital of the Philippines – a title previously held by Quezon City.

"Manila was originally the capital city of the Philippines. This was changed and another city in Metro Manila became the capital, a distinction it held for some years. A few years ago, this was changed and again Manila became the official capital of the Philippines," the mayor said.

"This was the right step to take. History is on our side because Manila truly is the center of activity where our country is concerned. It is from this city that today’s Metro Manila, also known as the National Capital Region, emanated from," the mayor stressed.

"But Intramuros will always be the heart of Manila and Manila the outgrowth of Intramuros. One is incomplete without the other," he added.

Speaking briefly at the program "Reliving Intramuros Today" after planting trees at the Maestranza Park, the mayor said, "Historians will tell you that Intramuros was the seat of government during the Spanish times."

Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said the planning of Manila began with Miguel Lopez de Legaspi in 1571 and Intramuros was finally completed in 1606.

"This place was both a city and a fortress. For almost four centuries of Spanish rule, the Walled City of Intramuros served as the capital of their colony in Asia. This was the political, military, and religious heart of the islands," Durano said.

Durano added that in later decades, Intramuros’ role in Philippine history was solidified when it became a garrison during the Japanese occupation and a prison where Filipino soldiers and guerillas were kept and executed.

^^^^^ expressed appreciation that Manila was restored as the capital of the Philippines...

hinde ba manila naman ang capital eversince? after the tenure of QC?

dapat sa intramuros bawal any forms of automobiles sa loob... mga skwater...

^^^^^ expressed appreciation that Manila was restored as the capital of the Philippines...

hinde ba manila naman ang capital eversince? after the tenure of QC?

dapat sa intramuros bawal any forms of automobiles sa loob... mga skwater...

^ tama ka dyan. dapat cobbled street at kalesa lang ang pwede.

^ tama ka dyan. dapat cobbled street at kalesa lang ang pwede.

^^Yeah,start carless days every Sunday will be a good start.Encourage people to jog or bike there.Then have some tiangges and art shop or whatever:)

^^Yeah,start carless days every Sunday will be a good start.Encourage people to jog or bike there.Then have some tiangges and art shop or whatever:)

The government should give a lot of budget for Intramuros and get rid of all squatters inside. Intramuros is our heritage as Filipinos, we should take care of it and be proud of our culture. They should have a no car policy inside and restore Intramuros, bring back the old grandeur and the enchantment of Intramuros. They should have a masterplan and a timeline on how to implement the project.

The government should give a lot of budget for Intramuros and get rid of all squatters inside. Intramuros is our heritage as Filipinos, we should take care of it and be proud of our culture. They should have a no car policy inside and restore Intramuros, bring back the old grandeur and the enchantment of Intramuros. They should have a masterplan and a timeline on how to implement the project.

bring back the TRAMS sa intram =D
tapos na en en vision ko, yung ayala bldg at el hogar ay eh rerenovate just like luneta hotel is...
tapos yung billboard ng mla buleetin ay alisin... tapos kung pwede yung mga uniforms ng mga schools sa loob ay ibahin, yung pang maria clara =D kagaya ng mga kawal sa intra

bring back the TRAMS sa intram =D
tapos na en en vision ko, yung ayala bldg at el hogar ay eh rerenovate just like luneta hotel is...
tapos yung billboard ng mla buleetin ay alisin... tapos kung pwede yung mga uniforms ng mga schools sa loob ay ibahin, yung pang maria clara =D kagaya ng mga kawal sa intra

^^ yea, i know what u mean. i saw old newsreels of pre-war Manila and man, people were elegant and dignified back then. They made it a point to be well dressed when goin out, men wore white shirts and pants, a hat or some wore coats whilst the ladies dressed up in ternos and sayas. Their generation did not see it as bein' "ma-arte" but 'twas more like them taking pride in themselves and in the great society they had back then. They were prob more well mannered than people these days.

Like I said just awhile ago on another thread, if there is a country called Las Filipinas, thence there can only be Manila as its capital as per the original design. But there has to be more emphasis on a Manila centred around the old districts - notably the Intramuros and its environs. IMHO, the Intramuros Administration should even be granted broader powers to control not only the area within the walls but also a vast expanse of areas surrounding the Intramuros - careful and strict zoning ang kailangan. Dapat nakakasindak sa ganda ang Intramuros di lamang sa loob kundi pati rin sa labas at mga paligid na lugar.

^^ yea, i know what u mean. i saw old newsreels of pre-war Manila and man, people were elegant and dignified back then. They made it a point to be well dressed when goin out, men wore white shirts and pants, a hat or some wore coats whilst the ladies dressed up in ternos and sayas. Their generation did not see it as bein' "ma-arte" but 'twas more like them taking pride in themselves and in the great society they had back then. They were prob more well mannered than people these days.

Like I said just awhile ago on another thread, if there is a country called Las Filipinas, thence there can only be Manila as its capital as per the original design. But there has to be more emphasis on a Manila centred around the old districts - notably the Intramuros and its environs. IMHO, the Intramuros Administration should even be granted broader powers to control not only the area within the walls but also a vast expanse of areas surrounding the Intramuros - careful and strict zoning ang kailangan. Dapat nakakasindak sa ganda ang Intramuros di lamang sa loob kundi pati rin sa labas at mga paligid na lugar.

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a89/overtureph/5b78_1.jpg

San Agustin

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a89/overtureph/5b78_1.jpg

San Agustin

http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/1394/madridsights77zl2.jpg

There are 2 ways we could tackle any situation/problem like this.It's either be negative,blame it to someone else(Like the politicians).Or we could choose to be positive.Simple things like,writing to the DOT secretary,or the Senator in charge of Urban Plannning perhaps.Even what we do now actually helps.I hope we could sustain this positive attitude.For protecting and preserving our culture and heritage,we make sure we keep our unique identity alive.

:lol: OM WOW! surprisingly, plaza de roma could easily look like this! and that red building could be palacio del gobernador! it's a bit similar. just change those windows and cobble the roads and maybe uproot some trees an voila! our very own plaza mayor!

http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/1394/madridsights77zl2.jpg

There are 2 ways we could tackle any situation/problem like this.It's either be negative,blame it to someone else(Like the politicians).Or we could choose to be positive.Simple things like,writing to the DOT secretary,or the Senator in charge of Urban Plannning perhaps.Even what we do now actually helps.I hope we could sustain this positive attitude.For protecting and preserving our culture and heritage,we make sure we keep our unique identity alive.

:lol: OM WOW! surprisingly, plaza de roma could easily look like this! and that red building could be palacio del gobernador! it's a bit similar. just change those windows and cobble the roads and maybe uproot some trees an voila! our very own plaza mayor!

Renovating Intramuros/Focusing on RP lensmen (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinion&p=49&type=2&sec=25&aid=20081010127)
SUNDRY STROKES By Rosalinda L. Orosa
Saturday, October 11, 2008

Intramuros, Nick Joaquin’s “ever noble and loyal city”, is the setting of his celebrated drama “Portrait of the Artist as Filipino”. Quite logically, the Barangay Theater Guild first presented the play on an improvised stage in Intramuros.

The ramparts of Intramuros, built by the Spaniards, protected the city from marauders. The Manila Cathedral, the imposing Palacio del Gobernador serve their purposes. The golf course still draws divot diggers.

Not too long ago, Ana Marie “Bambi” Harper was appointed overseer of the entire area, and those who know her well can’t think of a more qualified person for the position of Intramuros Administrator. For years, Harper has been and continues to be an environmentalist who, along with her colleagues, fiercely fights pollution — I wonder why public and private vehicles keep emitting smoke with impunity — and illegal logging. In this regard, Harper staunchly opposed the cutting of the trees in Arroceros, which act was meant to give way to a dormitory for teachers. By this token, Harper could not possibly have ordered the cutting of those 29 Narra trees in Intramuros because it would have totally gone against her principles.

At the moment, all seems quiet on the Intramuros front, and hopefully, DENR Secretary Lito Atienza and Harper are now on cordial terms — as they should be. Indeed, both being appointees of President Arroyo, they should be harmoniously working for common causes.

At any rate, despite the hazards and challenges confronting Harper, her agenda unwaveringly includes the beautification and renovation of Intramuros. Here are the activities relating to this as officially announced.

The Walled City enters a more exciting phase of development this month with the launch of “Reliving Intramuros Today”. With no less than President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo as guest of honor, activities on the special day were led by Tourism Secretary Joseph “Ace” Durano and Intramuros Administrator Anna Maria L. Harper.

First on the list of events was the Cornerstone Laying at Maestranza Park. This signifies the beginning of the reconstruction of the walls as the Northern part of Intramuros, the only section of the walls yet to be restored. Funding for the reconstruction project was granted by the government of Japan in 2004 upon the initiative of then Tourism Secretary (now Senator) Richard J. Gordon. Site of the Baluarte de Herrerias and Puerta de Almacenes, the curtain wall along the Pasig River was demolished by American Engineers in 1903 to give way to the construction of river wharves.

Next on the list is the ceremonial planting of flame trees (Delonix Regia). With the vision of 238 trees abloom in red for annual Flame Tree Festivals, Harper sought donations to bring the project to fruition. The donors’ names are engraved in markers at Plaza Roma and Maestranza in appreciation of their generosity.

Activities then moved to Fort Santiago with the opening of the Museum Shop at the Intramuros Visitors Center (IVC). Harper personally conceptualized the items for sale at the Museum Shop, such as mugs, note cards, tote bags, shirts, coffee/tea sets, and other gift items under the name The Intramuros Collection. The IVC occupies the chambers at Baluartillo de San Francisco Javier, a fortification built in 1662 as part of the seafront defense of the Walled City. Storage chambers for military supplies until the early 20th century, these were later used as barracks by the Japanese army and as garages and a warehouse by the American Army.

Capping the day’s festivities was the inauguration of the Almacenes Reales (Royal Warehouses) as an adaptive re-use facilities, with Marian images from the L.A. Museum collection on display. The brick walls were strengthened and polycarbonate sheers were installed as roofing to provide an indoor function area at Fort Santiago.

Antique windows, balusters and doors enhance the old charm of the structure. Originally put up in 1591 as a storehouse for goods unloaded along the river-wharves, it was renovated as soldiers’ quarters after the 1863 earthquake and eventually fell into disrepair.

With things happening in Intramuros at a fast pace, the future looks brighter for the Walled City.

* * *

Like other foreign cultural agencies, the Goethe Institut, whenever it can, projects Filipino performing and visual artists. On Oct. 17, at 6 p.m., the exhibition “Mapping Invisible Cities” at the Shangri-la Plaza (3/F) will feature the works of 27 photographers, eight of them Filipino: Cathy Quiogue, Che Katigbak, Cristina Luisa Sevilla, Dennis Rito, Estan Cabigas, Gigie Cruz, Kidlat de Guia and Tammy David.

This is how their photos came to be included in the exhibit which ends Nov. 7. When German photographer Peter Biallobrzeski traveled through SE Asia in 2007-8, he combined his own photographic investigations with workshops for young talents in Jakarta, Hanoi, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Manila and Singapore.

Correction: Overall chairman of “Francisfest 2008” is Menchu de las Alas Concepcion.

Renovating Intramuros/Focusing on RP lensmen (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinion&p=49&type=2&sec=25&aid=20081010127)
SUNDRY STROKES By Rosalinda L. Orosa
Saturday, October 11, 2008

Intramuros, Nick Joaquin’s “ever noble and loyal city”, is the setting of his celebrated drama “Portrait of the Artist as Filipino”. Quite logically, the Barangay Theater Guild first presented the play on an improvised stage in Intramuros.

The ramparts of Intramuros, built by the Spaniards, protected the city from marauders. The Manila Cathedral, the imposing Palacio del Gobernador serve their purposes. The golf course still draws divot diggers.

Not too long ago, Ana Marie “Bambi” Harper was appointed overseer of the entire area, and those who know her well can’t think of a more qualified person for the position of Intramuros Administrator. For years, Harper has been and continues to be an environmentalist who, along with her colleagues, fiercely fights pollution — I wonder why public and private vehicles keep emitting smoke with impunity — and illegal logging. In this regard, Harper staunchly opposed the cutting of the trees in Arroceros, which act was meant to give way to a dormitory for teachers. By this token, Harper could not possibly have ordered the cutting of those 29 Narra trees in Intramuros because it would have totally gone against her principles.

At the moment, all seems quiet on the Intramuros front, and hopefully, DENR Secretary Lito Atienza and Harper are now on cordial terms — as they should be. Indeed, both being appointees of President Arroyo, they should be harmoniously working for common causes.

At any rate, despite the hazards and challenges confronting Harper, her agenda unwaveringly includes the beautification and renovation of Intramuros. Here are the activities relating to this as officially announced.

The Walled City enters a more exciting phase of development this month with the launch of “Reliving Intramuros Today”. With no less than President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo as guest of honor, activities on the special day were led by Tourism Secretary Joseph “Ace” Durano and Intramuros Administrator Anna Maria L. Harper.

First on the list of events was the Cornerstone Laying at Maestranza Park. This signifies the beginning of the reconstruction of the walls as the Northern part of Intramuros, the only section of the walls yet to be restored. Funding for the reconstruction project was granted by the government of Japan in 2004 upon the initiative of then Tourism Secretary (now Senator) Richard J. Gordon. Site of the Baluarte de Herrerias and Puerta de Almacenes, the curtain wall along the Pasig River was demolished by American Engineers in 1903 to give way to the construction of river wharves.

Next on the list is the ceremonial planting of flame trees (Delonix Regia). With the vision of 238 trees abloom in red for annual Flame Tree Festivals, Harper sought donations to bring the project to fruition. The donors’ names are engraved in markers at Plaza Roma and Maestranza in appreciation of their generosity.

Activities then moved to Fort Santiago with the opening of the Museum Shop at the Intramuros Visitors Center (IVC). Harper personally conceptualized the items for sale at the Museum Shop, such as mugs, note cards, tote bags, shirts, coffee/tea sets, and other gift items under the name The Intramuros Collection. The IVC occupies the chambers at Baluartillo de San Francisco Javier, a fortification built in 1662 as part of the seafront defense of the Walled City. Storage chambers for military supplies until the early 20th century, these were later used as barracks by the Japanese army and as garages and a warehouse by the American Army.

Capping the day’s festivities was the inauguration of the Almacenes Reales (Royal Warehouses) as an adaptive re-use facilities, with Marian images from the L.A. Museum collection on display. The brick walls were strengthened and polycarbonate sheers were installed as roofing to provide an indoor function area at Fort Santiago.

Antique windows, balusters and doors enhance the old charm of the structure. Originally put up in 1591 as a storehouse for goods unloaded along the river-wharves, it was renovated as soldiers’ quarters after the 1863 earthquake and eventually fell into disrepair.

With things happening in Intramuros at a fast pace, the future looks brighter for the Walled City.

* * *

Like other foreign cultural agencies, the Goethe Institut, whenever it can, projects Filipino performing and visual artists. On Oct. 17, at 6 p.m., the exhibition “Mapping Invisible Cities” at the Shangri-la Plaza (3/F) will feature the works of 27 photographers, eight of them Filipino: Cathy Quiogue, Che Katigbak, Cristina Luisa Sevilla, Dennis Rito, Estan Cabigas, Gigie Cruz, Kidlat de Guia and Tammy David.

This is how their photos came to be included in the exhibit which ends Nov. 7. When German photographer Peter Biallobrzeski traveled through SE Asia in 2007-8, he combined his own photographic investigations with workshops for young talents in Jakarta, Hanoi, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Manila and Singapore.

Correction: Overall chairman of “Francisfest 2008” is Menchu de las Alas Concepcion.

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s307/jaime_makabayan_2007/intra31.jpg

hindi ba to delikado?? baka pumotok to. hehe
:bash::ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno::bash:

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s307/jaime_makabayan_2007/intra31.jpg

hindi ba to delikado?? baka pumotok to. hehe
:bash::ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno::ohno::bash:

27 cut Intramuros trees ‘refuse to die’ (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/metro/view/20081028-168959/27-cut-Intramuros-trees-refuse-to-die)
By Jeannette Andrade
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 19:01:00 10/28/2008
MANILA, Philippines -- Environmentalists Tuesday sought a reprieve for 27 of the 29 trees in a park across the Manila Cathedral that the Intramuros Administration chopped down last month, saying the trees still had a chance to live.

The chopping down of the trees, ostensibly to provide a clear view of the cathedral and so these could be replaced with “historically acceptable“ species, has stirred outrage among environmental groups.

Describing the trees as “death convicts” because of the numbers painted on the stumps, Mother Earth Philippines Network convenor Odette Alcantara said the 27 trees have refused to die and saplings have sprouted from them since the "slaughter" of September 1.

Only two of the 29 trees, numbers 22 and 23 -- both acacia -- stood no chance of surviving. One of these is the oldest of the narra, mahogany, mango, neem, jackfruit, and atis trees that were cut down to give way to the re-landscaping of Plaza Roma.

Manila Seedling Bank Foundation forestry consultant and tree surgeon Isidro Esteban said tree Number 23 is about 30 to 40 years old and added that “only a miracle“ would help the stump survive because it had been chopped off too short.

A portion of the acacia, which Alcantara calls its “cadaver,” was converted into a makeshift chair because of its shape.

“Please they do not want to die. Do not insist on killing them,” Alcantara said as she and experts from the Manila Seedling Bank Foundation inspected the numbered stumps around Plaza Roma to determine which are still alive. She called the felling of the trees “sacrilege.”

Esteban told the Philippine Daily Inquirer (parent company of INQUIRER.net) that the stumps that managed to survive will no longer grow as sturdy as before they were cut down.

“They should have instead been balled and relocated instead of being cut down close to the roots,” the expert explained, pointing out that most of the trees have been there for 10 to 20 years.

He said there was no evidence any effort of balling was undertaken.

“If we listen to nature, listen to the trees’ spirit, there is a message: tree killers should not kill those which refuse to die,” Alcantara said, as she disclosed a plan to discuss the preservation of the surviving trees with Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales.

Alcantara said shamans are expected to visit Plaza Roma on All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day to chant for the spirits of the trees to dramatize respect for all forms of life.

“This is to appease the restless spirits of the trees,” she said.

“We should not be killing trees. We should be planting them,” Alcantara said.

27 cut Intramuros trees ‘refuse to die’ (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/metro/view/20081028-168959/27-cut-Intramuros-trees-refuse-to-die)
By Jeannette Andrade
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 19:01:00 10/28/2008
MANILA, Philippines -- Environmentalists Tuesday sought a reprieve for 27 of the 29 trees in a park across the Manila Cathedral that the Intramuros Administration chopped down last month, saying the trees still had a chance to live.

The chopping down of the trees, ostensibly to provide a clear view of the cathedral and so these could be replaced with “historically acceptable“ species, has stirred outrage among environmental groups.

Describing the trees as “death convicts” because of the numbers painted on the stumps, Mother Earth Philippines Network convenor Odette Alcantara said the 27 trees have refused to die and saplings have sprouted from them since the "slaughter" of September 1.

Only two of the 29 trees, numbers 22 and 23 -- both acacia -- stood no chance of surviving. One of these is the oldest of the narra, mahogany, mango, neem, jackfruit, and atis trees that were cut down to give way to the re-landscaping of Plaza Roma.

Manila Seedling Bank Foundation forestry consultant and tree surgeon Isidro Esteban said tree Number 23 is about 30 to 40 years old and added that “only a miracle“ would help the stump survive because it had been chopped off too short.

A portion of the acacia, which Alcantara calls its “cadaver,” was converted into a makeshift chair because of its shape.

“Please they do not want to die. Do not insist on killing them,” Alcantara said as she and experts from the Manila Seedling Bank Foundation inspected the numbered stumps around Plaza Roma to determine which are still alive. She called the felling of the trees “sacrilege.”

Esteban told the Philippine Daily Inquirer (parent company of INQUIRER.net) that the stumps that managed to survive will no longer grow as sturdy as before they were cut down.

“They should have instead been balled and relocated instead of being cut down close to the roots,” the expert explained, pointing out that most of the trees have been there for 10 to 20 years.

He said there was no evidence any effort of balling was undertaken.

“If we listen to nature, listen to the trees’ spirit, there is a message: tree killers should not kill those which refuse to die,” Alcantara said, as she disclosed a plan to discuss the preservation of the surviving trees with Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales.

Alcantara said shamans are expected to visit Plaza Roma on All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day to chant for the spirits of the trees to dramatize respect for all forms of life.

“This is to appease the restless spirits of the trees,” she said.

“We should not be killing trees. We should be planting them,” Alcantara said.

http://travel.asiaone.com/A1MEDIA/travel/11Nov08/images/20081120.162251_manila-2a.jpg

http://travel.asiaone.com/a1media/travel/11Nov08/images/20081120.162251_manila-1a.jpg

By Alastair Mcindoe, Philippines correspondent in Manila (http://travel.asiaone.com/Travel/Places%2B%2526%2BInterests/Region/Asia/Story/A1Story20081120-102157.html)

Near Manila's gridlocked bayfront road is the old Spanish walled city of Intramuros, a national treasure that has survived devastating earthquakes, near annihilation in World War II and modern-day city planners.

Intramuros (it means within the walls) is a tranquil haven of museums, cobbled streets, restored colonial-era buildings and tropical gardens. And, since my first visit over a decade ago, more galleries, craft shops and restaurants have opened.

Intramuros was built on a Malay kota or fort ruled by a Bornean prince named Rajah Solaiman. Spanish conquistadors took over in 1571 and built a fortress city of churches, administrative offices and residences covering 7.8 sq km.

With the exception of a brief occupation by a British naval squadron in 1762, Intramuros kept out foreign invaders and marauding pirates until America elbowed Spain out of the Philippines in 1898.

Start your visit at Fort Santiago at the north end of Intramuros. Like much of the walled city, the fortress, which overlooks the Pasig River's murky waters at the mouth of Manila Bay, is an atmospheric mix of the ruined, restored and miraculously preserved.

The extraordinary life of the country's national hero Jose Rizal is chronicled here. Independence campaigner, educator, ophthalmologist, botanist and linguist, Rizal wrote two novels, known by Filipinos simply as Noli and Fili, that explosively illuminated Spain's oppressive rule.

After a farce of a trial for rebellion, he was briefly imprisoned in Fort Santiago and executed in the nearby Bagumbayan Field on Dec 30, 1896.

His final steps to a firing squad are laid out in bronze footsteps. Take a moment to read the moving poem he wrote, or at least completed, in his cell on the night before his execution. Written in Spanish, Mi Ultimo Adios (My Final Farewell) is inscribed in various languages on the museum's walls.

Silahis in General Luna Street is still the best arts and crafts shop in Intramuros. Agreeably free of touristy kitsch, this three-floored emporium is crammed with native products from across the archipelago. Recommended buys include dinner mats, prints of old Manila and wood carvings.

There are also galleries and shops in the shady interior courtyards of the Plaza San Luis Complex on General Luna across the road from the San Augustin Church.

Intramuros has yet to make a mark on Manila's increasingly vibrant restaurant scene. But Barabaras in the Plaza San Luis Complex is worth a visit just for the over-the-top 19th-century decor. It serves a reasonable lunch buffet of European and Filipino dishes for 395 pesos (S$12).

The cooler late afternoons are the best time to visit and the American-era Manila Hotel, a short walk from Fort Santiago, is perfect for a sundowner afterwards.

Restoring Intramuros to its pre-war grandeur was begun in 1979 by Imelda Marcos, the wife of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos. It is still a work in progress.

Most of the buildings inside the walled city and a large swathe of Manila north of the Pasig River were destroyed in World War II's closing months.

The historic San Augustin Church was one of Intramuros' few buildings to survive the inferno with its roof intact. This great survivor also stood firm in the great earthquake of 1863.

For nearly 30 years after the war, much of Intramuros was a slum area.

The head of the Intramuros Administration, which is charged with the quarter's restoration, is former teacher, antique dealer and newspaper columnist Anna Maria 'Bambi' Harper.

We sat down in the Museum Shop in Fort Santiago at a table laid with an elegant tea service that was on sale. Coffee was brought in from a nearby Starbucks.

'Intramuros is the only heritage site in the city where you can experience old Manila, but it needs to become more of a mixed-use area,' she says. 'We want to attract residential development so more cafes, shops and restaurants will open here; nowadays this place is rather dead at night.'

Indeed, a Belgian visitor in 1870 likened Intramuros to 'one huge convent' with no hotels, cafes or clubs for the Europeans living there. The place livened up in the American period, though it still remained Manila's most important venue for religious festivals until the war.

The redoubtable Mrs Harper has several projects lined up for Intramuros. Trams are set to clang through its streets for the first time since the 1940s in the coming months. On the restoration front, work is underway to rebuild St Ignacio Church, just a shell right now, using plans from local and Spanish archives.

Restoring Intramuros to a heritage site matching, say, colonial Macau would be a powerful tourist attraction. As things stand, many visitors skip Manila and head straight for the beaches.

Some argue that Intramuros is more about the history of Spain and the other colonial powers that occupied the Philippines.

True, the locals were not allowed to live inside the walled city until the early 19th century, while Chinese settlers were made to live in a quarter well within the range of Fort Santiago's canons.

As Filipinos say dryly of Spanish and American rule: 'Three hundred years in the convent, half a century in Disneyland.'

Mrs Harper waves aside the notion of Intramuros being foreign ground. 'Its history', she says, 'reflects the melting pot' of influences in the Philippines.

The crouching Chinese granite lions flanking a statue of St Augustin on the outer walls of the famous church that bears his name make the point nicely.

http://travel.asiaone.com/A1MEDIA/travel/11Nov08/images/20081120.162251_manila-2a.jpg

http://travel.asiaone.com/a1media/travel/11Nov08/images/20081120.162251_manila-1a.jpg

By Alastair Mcindoe, Philippines correspondent in Manila (http://travel.asiaone.com/Travel/Places%2B%2526%2BInterests/Region/Asia/Story/A1Story20081120-102157.html)

Near Manila's gridlocked bayfront road is the old Spanish walled city of Intramuros, a national treasure that has survived devastating earthquakes, near annihilation in World War II and modern-day city planners.

Intramuros (it means within the walls) is a tranquil haven of museums, cobbled streets, restored colonial-era buildings and tropical gardens. And, since my first visit over a decade ago, more galleries, craft shops and restaurants have opened.

Intramuros was built on a Malay kota or fort ruled by a Bornean prince named Rajah Solaiman. Spanish conquistadors took over in 1571 and built a fortress city of churches, administrative offices and residences covering 7.8 sq km.

With the exception of a brief occupation by a British naval squadron in 1762, Intramuros kept out foreign invaders and marauding pirates until America elbowed Spain out of the Philippines in 1898.

Start your visit at Fort Santiago at the north end of Intramuros. Like much of the walled city, the fortress, which overlooks the Pasig River's murky waters at the mouth of Manila Bay, is an atmospheric mix of the ruined, restored and miraculously preserved.

The extraordinary life of the country's national hero Jose Rizal is chronicled here. Independence campaigner, educator, ophthalmologist, botanist and linguist, Rizal wrote two novels, known by Filipinos simply as Noli and Fili, that explosively illuminated Spain's oppressive rule.

After a farce of a trial for rebellion, he was briefly imprisoned in Fort Santiago and executed in the nearby Bagumbayan Field on Dec 30, 1896.

His final steps to a firing squad are laid out in bronze footsteps. Take a moment to read the moving poem he wrote, or at least completed, in his cell on the night before his execution. Written in Spanish, Mi Ultimo Adios (My Final Farewell) is inscribed in various languages on the museum's walls.

Silahis in General Luna Street is still the best arts and crafts shop in Intramuros. Agreeably free of touristy kitsch, this three-floored emporium is crammed with native products from across the archipelago. Recommended buys include dinner mats, prints of old Manila and wood carvings.

There are also galleries and shops in the shady interior courtyards of the Plaza San Luis Complex on General Luna across the road from the San Augustin Church.

Intramuros has yet to make a mark on Manila's increasingly vibrant restaurant scene. But Barabaras in the Plaza San Luis Complex is worth a visit just for the over-the-top 19th-century decor. It serves a reasonable lunch buffet of European and Filipino dishes for 395 pesos (S$12).

The cooler late afternoons are the best time to visit and the American-era Manila Hotel, a short walk from Fort Santiago, is perfect for a sundowner afterwards.

Restoring Intramuros to its pre-war grandeur was begun in 1979 by Imelda Marcos, the wife of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos. It is still a work in progress.

Most of the buildings inside the walled city and a large swathe of Manila north of the Pasig River were destroyed in World War II's closing months.

The historic San Augustin Church was one of Intramuros' few buildings to survive the inferno with its roof intact. This great survivor also stood firm in the great earthquake of 1863.

For nearly 30 years after the war, much of Intramuros was a slum area.

The head of the Intramuros Administration, which is charged with the quarter's restoration, is former teacher, antique dealer and newspaper columnist Anna Maria 'Bambi' Harper.

We sat down in the Museum Shop in Fort Santiago at a table laid with an elegant tea service that was on sale. Coffee was brought in from a nearby Starbucks.

'Intramuros is the only heritage site in the city where you can experience old Manila, but it needs to become more of a mixed-use area,' she says. 'We want to attract residential development so more cafes, shops and restaurants will open here; nowadays this place is rather dead at night.'

Indeed, a Belgian visitor in 1870 likened Intramuros to 'one huge convent' with no hotels, cafes or clubs for the Europeans living there. The place livened up in the American period, though it still remained Manila's most important venue for religious festivals until the war.

The redoubtable Mrs Harper has several projects lined up for Intramuros. Trams are set to clang through its streets for the first time since the 1940s in the coming months. On the restoration front, work is underway to rebuild St Ignacio Church, just a shell right now, using plans from local and Spanish archives.

Restoring Intramuros to a heritage site matching, say, colonial Macau would be a powerful tourist attraction. As things stand, many visitors skip Manila and head straight for the beaches.

Some argue that Intramuros is more about the history of Spain and the other colonial powers that occupied the Philippines.

True, the locals were not allowed to live inside the walled city until the early 19th century, while Chinese settlers were made to live in a quarter well within the range of Fort Santiago's canons.

As Filipinos say dryly of Spanish and American rule: 'Three hundred years in the convent, half a century in Disneyland.'

Mrs Harper waves aside the notion of Intramuros being foreign ground. 'Its history', she says, 'reflects the melting pot' of influences in the Philippines.

The crouching Chinese granite lions flanking a statue of St Augustin on the outer walls of the famous church that bears his name make the point nicely.

I want the Tranvias to be restored and the whole Intramuros complex!!! Intramuros de Manila should look like these models again! :cheers:



The head of the Intramuros Administration, which is charged with the quarter's restoration, is former teacher, antique dealer and newspaper columnist Anna Maria 'Bambi' Harper.

We sat down in the Museum Shop in Fort Santiago at a table laid with an elegant tea service that was on sale. Coffee was brought in from a nearby Starbucks.

'Intramuros is the only heritage site in the city where you can experience old Manila, but it needs to become more of a mixed-use area,' she says. 'We want to attract residential development so more cafes, shops and restaurants will open here; nowadays this place is rather dead at night.'

Indeed, a Belgian visitor in 1870 likened Intramuros to 'one huge convent' with no hotels, cafes or clubs for the Europeans living there. The place livened up in the American period, though it still remained Manila's most important venue for religious festivals until the war.

The redoubtable Mrs Harper has several projects lined up for Intramuros. Trams are set to clang through its streets for the first time since the 1940s in the coming months. On the restoration front, work is underway to rebuild St Ignacio Church, just a shell right now, using plans from local and Spanish archives.

Restoring Intramuros to a heritage site matching, say, colonial Macau would be a powerful tourist attraction. As things stand, many visitors skip Manila and head straight for the beaches.



Meralco Museum, aside from the Meralco tranvia is marveling at the meticulously crafted scale models of old Manila.

http://img152.imageshack.us/img152/2063/scale13ks.jpg

The scale models practically covered the major parts of Manila (Intramuros de Manila, Sta. Cruz, Binondo, Tondo, San Miguel, Malate, and even San Juan).

http://img113.imageshack.us/img113/6372/scale29xf.jpg

Mural of Old Manila

http://img113.imageshack.us/img113/8869/scale34ui.jpg

San Miguel district (San Sebastian church still looks magnificent even in scale models).

http://img45.imageshack.us/img45/263/scale40qz.jpg

Overview of San Sebastian Church.

http://img45.imageshack.us/img45/3259/scale51qi.jpg

Malacañang Palace - The Presidential Palace

http://img45.imageshack.us/img45/7104/scale65tp.jpg

Ayala Bridge/ Hospicio de San Jose/ Germinal Cigar Factory

http://img48.imageshack.us/img48/5570/scale78gm.jpg

Malate Church

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/6963/scale87ub.jpg

Sta. Ana Church. The street is lined with graceful vacation houses.

http://img110.imageshack.us/img110/4940/scale133yr.jpg

Binondo district (The tracks of the tranvia at Calle Rosario leads all the way to Binondo Church).

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/8701/scale103gf.jpg

Calle Escolta district

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/3563/scale118ru.jpg

Plaza Goiti

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/2185/scale128md.jpg

Monte de Piedad (Sta. Cruz district)

Photos by Wonderboy

I want the Tranvias to be restored and the whole Intramuros complex!!! Intramuros de Manila should look like these models again! :cheers:



The head of the Intramuros Administration, which is charged with the quarter's restoration, is former teacher, antique dealer and newspaper columnist Anna Maria 'Bambi' Harper.

We sat down in the Museum Shop in Fort Santiago at a table laid with an elegant tea service that was on sale. Coffee was brought in from a nearby Starbucks.

'Intramuros is the only heritage site in the city where you can experience old Manila, but it needs to become more of a mixed-use area,' she says. 'We want to attract residential development so more cafes, shops and restaurants will open here; nowadays this place is rather dead at night.'

Indeed, a Belgian visitor in 1870 likened Intramuros to 'one huge convent' with no hotels, cafes or clubs for the Europeans living there. The place livened up in the American period, though it still remained Manila's most important venue for religious festivals until the war.

The redoubtable Mrs Harper has several projects lined up for Intramuros. Trams are set to clang through its streets for the first time since the 1940s in the coming months. On the restoration front, work is underway to rebuild St Ignacio Church, just a shell right now, using plans from local and Spanish archives.

Restoring Intramuros to a heritage site matching, say, colonial Macau would be a powerful tourist attraction. As things stand, many visitors skip Manila and head straight for the beaches.



Meralco Museum, aside from the Meralco tranvia is marveling at the meticulously crafted scale models of old Manila.

http://img152.imageshack.us/img152/2063/scale13ks.jpg

The scale models practically covered the major parts of Manila (Intramuros de Manila, Sta. Cruz, Binondo, Tondo, San Miguel, Malate, and even San Juan).

http://img113.imageshack.us/img113/6372/scale29xf.jpg

Mural of Old Manila

http://img113.imageshack.us/img113/8869/scale34ui.jpg

San Miguel district (San Sebastian church still looks magnificent even in scale models).

http://img45.imageshack.us/img45/263/scale40qz.jpg

Overview of San Sebastian Church.

http://img45.imageshack.us/img45/3259/scale51qi.jpg

Malacañang Palace - The Presidential Palace

http://img45.imageshack.us/img45/7104/scale65tp.jpg

Ayala Bridge/ Hospicio de San Jose/ Germinal Cigar Factory

http://img48.imageshack.us/img48/5570/scale78gm.jpg

Malate Church

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/6963/scale87ub.jpg

Sta. Ana Church. The street is lined with graceful vacation houses.

http://img110.imageshack.us/img110/4940/scale133yr.jpg

Binondo district (The tracks of the tranvia at Calle Rosario leads all the way to Binondo Church).

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/8701/scale103gf.jpg

Calle Escolta district

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/3563/scale118ru.jpg

Plaza Goiti

http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/2185/scale128md.jpg

Monte de Piedad (Sta. Cruz district)

Photos by Wonderboy

Iglesia de Recoletos

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3182/2821392413_7b3f9bf205_o.jpg

;28330564']
http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/135/75085995hl8.jpg
A view of Muralla Street in the old walled city of Manila one week before the war with Japan.
Location: Manila, Philippines
Date taken: 1942
Photographer: Carl Mydans


The Recollect Convent - Dispensary. This is the long structure parallel to the facade of the church in the diagram above.

;28330358']
http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/3597/intramurosde9.jpg
A view of Muralla Street in Manila.
Location: Manila, Philippines
Date taken: 1942
Photographer: Carl Mydans


The Recollect Convent - Dormitories(?). In the diagram above, only a small part of this structure had been built, which was located at the back of the church. The finished structure was parallel to the nave of the church.

Iglesia de Recoletos

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3182/2821392413_7b3f9bf205_o.jpg

;28330564']
http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/135/75085995hl8.jpg
A view of Muralla Street in the old walled city of Manila one week before the war with Japan.
Location: Manila, Philippines
Date taken: 1942
Photographer: Carl Mydans


The Recollect Convent - Dispensary. This is the long structure parallel to the facade of the church in the diagram above.

;28330358']
http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/3597/intramurosde9.jpg
A view of Muralla Street in Manila.
Location: Manila, Philippines
Date taken: 1942
Photographer: Carl Mydans


The Recollect Convent - Dormitories(?). In the diagram above, only a small part of this structure had been built, which was located at the back of the church. The finished structure was parallel to the nave of the church.

http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/lifestyle/lifestyle/view/20081123-173859/90-carrozas-to-join-Marian-procession

90 ‘carrozas’ to join Marian procession
By Josephine Darang
Philippine Daily Inquirer
11/23/2008

MANILA, Philippines - At least 90 flower-bedecked carrozas bearing the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary under different titles are joining the 29th procession of the Cofradia de la Inmaculada Concepcion on Dec. 7, Sunday, around Intramuros.

The Cofradia revived the tradition way back in 1980 of bringing out the La Inmaculada Concepcion in a procession to celebrate her feast day on Dec. 8, later becoming the first Sunday of December.

This year’s hermanos mayores are Bootsie and Oscar Violago. Next year, on the 30th anniversary, the hermanos will be banker Danny Dolor and Aurora Eizmendi, president of the Cofradia.

Expected to join are the venerated images of Our Lady of La Naval, Our Lady of Manaoag from Pangasinan, Our Lady of La Salette from Silang, Cavite, Our Lady of Namacpacan all the way from Luna, La Union, the icons of Our Lady of La Soledad de Porta Vaga, the Nuestra Señora del Rosario from Cavite and Our Lady of Caysasay.

The devotees of Our Lady of Peñafrancia in Metro Manila will bring their image. The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal and the Cofradia de la Nuestra Señora del Buen Suceso will join. Boy Ponce will bring the image of Nuestra Señora de Verdad y Justicia, originally from Chile. The Nuestra Señora de Turumba from Pakil will be accompanied by the town.

Schedule of activities

Triduum Masses in honor of the Immaculate Conception will be held at the Manila Cathedral on Dec. 3-5 at 11:30 a.m. The First Holy Communion Mass of 500 public school children will take place at the Manila Cathedral on Dec. 6 at 2 p.m., to be presided over by Bishop Teodoro Bacani.

The Hermana Mayor Mass is on Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. with Archbishop Diosdado Talamayan as main celebrant. He will also open the procession with a prayer and blessing.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines will lead the procession, followed by the carroza of San Andres which will be accompanied by the Calolbon Civic Association from Catanduanes, whose patron saint is San Andres. Calolbon was the old name of San Andres town. The group was founded in 1926.

http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/lifestyle/lifestyle/view/20081123-173859/90-carrozas-to-join-Marian-procession

90 ‘carrozas’ to join Marian procession
By Josephine Darang
Philippine Daily Inquirer
11/23/2008

MANILA, Philippines - At least 90 flower-bedecked carrozas bearing the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary under different titles are joining the 29th procession of the Cofradia de la Inmaculada Concepcion on Dec. 7, Sunday, around Intramuros.

The Cofradia revived the tradition way back in 1980 of bringing out the La Inmaculada Concepcion in a procession to celebrate her feast day on Dec. 8, later becoming the first Sunday of December.

This year’s hermanos mayores are Bootsie and Oscar Violago. Next year, on the 30th anniversary, the hermanos will be banker Danny Dolor and Aurora Eizmendi, president of the Cofradia.

Expected to join are the venerated images of Our Lady of La Naval, Our Lady of Manaoag from Pangasinan, Our Lady of La Salette from Silang, Cavite, Our Lady of Namacpacan all the way from Luna, La Union, the icons of Our Lady of La Soledad de Porta Vaga, the Nuestra Señora del Rosario from Cavite and Our Lady of Caysasay.

The devotees of Our Lady of Peñafrancia in Metro Manila will bring their image. The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal and the Cofradia de la Nuestra Señora del Buen Suceso will join. Boy Ponce will bring the image of Nuestra Señora de Verdad y Justicia, originally from Chile. The Nuestra Señora de Turumba from Pakil will be accompanied by the town.

Schedule of activities

Triduum Masses in honor of the Immaculate Conception will be held at the Manila Cathedral on Dec. 3-5 at 11:30 a.m. The First Holy Communion Mass of 500 public school children will take place at the Manila Cathedral on Dec. 6 at 2 p.m., to be presided over by Bishop Teodoro Bacani.

The Hermana Mayor Mass is on Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. with Archbishop Diosdado Talamayan as main celebrant. He will also open the procession with a prayer and blessing.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines will lead the procession, followed by the carroza of San Andres which will be accompanied by the Calolbon Civic Association from Catanduanes, whose patron saint is San Andres. Calolbon was the old name of San Andres town. The group was founded in 1926.

I have been to Manila a few times and loved it specially intramuros. I wish I could see a picture of what the Palacio del Gobernador and Plaza Roma used to look like in the old days, thanx

I have been to Manila a few times and loved it specially intramuros. I wish I could see a picture of what the Palacio del Gobernador and Plaza Roma used to look like in the old days, thanx

Sana talaga i-restore kahit sa loob man lang ng intramuros un cobblestone roads at Trams At Alisin un mga "modern" roads and structures sa loob ng intramuros site... :ohno:

Sana talaga i-restore kahit sa loob man lang ng intramuros un cobblestone roads at Trams At Alisin un mga "modern" roads and structures sa loob ng intramuros site... :ohno:

:lol: OM WOW! surprisingly, plaza de roma could easily look like this! and that red building could be palacio del gobernador! it's a bit similar. just change those windows and cobble the roads and maybe uproot some trees an voila! our very own plaza mayor!

the biggest difference with the European plazas and Intramuros is that our idea of preservation is leaving it to rot without real maintenance. The cobbled stones of Intramuros have been worn down by cars and feet. It needs to be replaced, not by concrete but by newer cobbled pathways. As much as I'd like it to be a complete tourist area, it will only be financially viable if there is limited commercial or educational space there.

It'd be great to get rid of the cars too, but you have to find space for parking outside the walls where it won't detract from the view too much.

Though some of the wartime ruins in Intramuros should stay. Not all of it, as the place looks like a run-down shack, but maybe one important semi-building, to acknowledge the Filipino contribution during World War Two.

:lol: OM WOW! surprisingly, plaza de roma could easily look like this! and that red building could be palacio del gobernador! it's a bit similar. just change those windows and cobble the roads and maybe uproot some trees an voila! our very own plaza mayor!

the biggest difference with the European plazas and Intramuros is that our idea of preservation is leaving it to rot without real maintenance. The cobbled stones of Intramuros have been worn down by cars and feet. It needs to be replaced, not by concrete but by newer cobbled pathways. As much as I'd like it to be a complete tourist area, it will only be financially viable if there is limited commercial or educational space there.

It'd be great to get rid of the cars too, but you have to find space for parking outside the walls where it won't detract from the view too much.

Though some of the wartime ruins in Intramuros should stay. Not all of it, as the place looks like a run-down shack, but maybe one important semi-building, to acknowledge the Filipino contribution during World War Two.

Sana talaga i-restore kahit sa loob man lang ng intramuros un cobblestone roads at Trams At Alisin un mga "modern" roads and structures sa loob ng intramuros site... :ohno:
including the schools? i think that's impossible.

Sana talaga i-restore kahit sa loob man lang ng intramuros un cobblestone roads at Trams At Alisin un mga "modern" roads and structures sa loob ng intramuros site... :ohno:
including the schools? i think that's impossible.

including the schools? i think that's impossible.

PLM at Lyceum lang ang dapat na manatiling bagong eskwelahan dyan.

Pwede ilabas ng intramuros ang Mapua, Manila High, Bulletin at iba pang di nababagay sa loob, at dun sila ilagay sa port area. gaganda pa yung area na yun.

Nagawa ito ng Lebanon sa historical districts nila, bakit hindi ng Pinas.

Malaki-laking b_yag ang kakailanganin para maipatupad ito.

including the schools? i think that's impossible.

PLM at Lyceum lang ang dapat na manatiling bagong eskwelahan dyan.

Pwede ilabas ng intramuros ang Mapua, Manila High, Bulletin at iba pang di nababagay sa loob, at dun sila ilagay sa port area. gaganda pa yung area na yun.

Nagawa ito ng Lebanon sa historical districts nila, bakit hindi ng Pinas.

Malaki-laking b_yag ang kakailanganin para maipatupad ito.

PLM at Lyceum lang ang dapat na manatiling bagong eskwelahan dyan.

Pwede ilabas ng intramuros ang Mapua, Manila High, Bulletin at iba pang di nababagay sa loob, at dun sila ilagay sa port area. gaganda pa yung area na yun.

Nagawa ito ng Lebanon sa historical districts nila, bakit hindi ng Pinas.

Malaki-laking b_yag ang kakailanganin para maipatupad ito.

What's the basis of this selectivity? Some lots/establishments are privately owned. The National Press Club is modern but it's also considered an architectural gem.

PLM at Lyceum lang ang dapat na manatiling bagong eskwelahan dyan.

Pwede ilabas ng intramuros ang Mapua, Manila High, Bulletin at iba pang di nababagay sa loob, at dun sila ilagay sa port area. gaganda pa yung area na yun.

Nagawa ito ng Lebanon sa historical districts nila, bakit hindi ng Pinas.

Malaki-laking b_yag ang kakailanganin para maipatupad ito.

What's the basis of this selectivity? Some lots/establishments are privately owned. The National Press Club is modern but it's also considered an architectural gem.

^^ It does not fit with the environment. Have you ever seen historic Medieval cities with modern architecture? Intramuros de Manila is unique in Asia. It is one of the few medieval city/fortification with that size and model in Asia/world.

^^ It does not fit with the environment. Have you ever seen historic Medieval cities with modern architecture? Intramuros de Manila is unique in Asia. It is one of the few medieval city/fortification with that size and model in Asia/world.

^^ It does not fit with the environment. Have you ever seen historic Medieval cities with modern architecture? Intramuros de Manila is unique in Asia. It is one of the few medieval city/fortification with that size and model in Asia/world.

IMO, PLM tries hard to adapt to the theme but ends up looking kitschy. I'd keep the NPC over that anytime. I'm for the preservation of the architectural milieu but I feel there's something wrong with current standard for the type of structures that can be built in Intramuros if I were to base it on some of those PLM buildings.

My other point is about democracy. Why push some entities out? Why not make them conform instead.

^^ It does not fit with the environment. Have you ever seen historic Medieval cities with modern architecture? Intramuros de Manila is unique in Asia. It is one of the few medieval city/fortification with that size and model in Asia/world.

IMO, PLM tries hard to adapt to the theme but ends up looking kitschy. I'd keep the NPC over that anytime. I'm for the preservation of the architectural milieu but I feel there's something wrong with current standard for the type of structures that can be built in Intramuros if I were to base it on some of those PLM buildings.

My other point is about democracy. Why push some entities out? Why not make them conform instead.

^^ It will take money to conform and time too. For schools, the students will suffer. The best way is to build and trasfer and destroy those unnecessary buildings.

^^ It will take money to conform and time too. For schools, the students will suffer. The best way is to build and trasfer and destroy those unnecessary buildings.

^^ It will take money to conform and time too. For schools, the students will suffer. The best way is to build and trasfer and destroy those unnecessary buildings.

What should stay and what shouldn't? Which institutions have the rightful claim to the holy land? :)

^^ It will take money to conform and time too. For schools, the students will suffer. The best way is to build and trasfer and destroy those unnecessary buildings.

What should stay and what shouldn't? Which institutions have the rightful claim to the holy land? :)

^^ It does not fit with the environment. Have you ever seen historic Medieval cities with modern architecture? Intramuros de Manila is unique in Asia. It is one of the few medieval city/fortification with that size and model in Asia/world.


Animo, Intramuros may be old but not that old. To call it Medieval fortification is stretching it quite a bit. :)

^^ It does not fit with the environment. Have you ever seen historic Medieval cities with modern architecture? Intramuros de Manila is unique in Asia. It is one of the few medieval city/fortification with that size and model in Asia/world.


Animo, Intramuros may be old but not that old. To call it Medieval fortification is stretching it quite a bit. :)

By Kristine L. Alave
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 20:32:00 12/06/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- How do Filipinos celebrate Christmas? Let us count the ways.

In Manila, radio stations bust out the Christmas songbook even before December arrives. The Christmas tree and the lights are up by November and by December, Manila is ablaze with Tivoli lights and festive neon signs.

In Pampanga, there’s the giant Christmas lantern festival that towns compete for. There’s the Belen or nativity scene showcase in Bicol, the dawn Masses nationwide, the parades, and the native delicacies and spreads that Filipinos look forward to every year.

For Filipinos and tourists, there’s no need to travel to the provinces to witness and taste the Philippine holiday celebrations as the Department of Tourism has revived "Wow Philippines" precisely to give local and foreign tourists a glimpse of how Christmas is celebrated throughout the country.

Romulo Delos Reyes, Department of Tourism director for special projects, said the Christmas-themed festivities in Intramuros will be an opportunity to highlight the best of Filipino culture, food, music, and wares. After all, nobody comes close to Filipinos when it comes to celebrating Christmas, he said.

“Every weekend, there will be a festival related to Christmas. We will have the ‘Pastores a Belen’ show, which is from Bicol. On the last weekend, we will bring the giant Christmas lanterns of Pampanga,” delos Reyes said in an interview.


He also noted that the Christmas exhibition in "Wow Philippines" is aimed at injecting a sense of Filipino pride to the holidays.

“It’s really about bringing back people to Intramuros and developing a sense of pride in being Filipino,” delos Reyes said.

Senator Richard Gordon, former tourism secretary, said the Christmas festival in Intramuros should spur domestic tourism.

He urged families to bring their children to the Walled City this holiday season instead of the malls, where they have to spend money to enjoy the attractions. “It’s cheaper here and it’s educational,” he said.

Aside from the festivals, there will also be pop concerts, zarzuelas, and plays at the small stage on Anda St., he said. The tourism department also set up bazaars inside the "Wow Philippines" tent to showcase regional products under the Department of Trade’s "One Town, One Product" project.

Tourists who want to sample native Filipino foods and rice cakes can have their fill at the food stalls located in the compound.

Bambi Harper, head of the Intramuros Administration, said there will also be an exhibit of the nativity scenes crafted by the late national artist Ramon Obusan sometime this month.

On Friday night, for instance, throngs of tourists were treated to exhibits showing model houses and musical styles from the Mayoyao and Kalinga tribes. There was also a Hispanic “bachelor pad” complete with reproduction furniture and photographs.

All model houses were complete with “residents” in full costume who danced and played native musical instruments.

The Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group also graced the Friday night festivities with its thanksgiving dances and rituals at the Bahay Tagalog, Torogan, Kalinga Village. The UP Singing Ambassadors also performed Christmas songs.

There was also a parade of period inspired floats depicting historical themes. The parade, called Pinoy, Pinas, will be held on Fridays to Sundays at 6:30 p.m. The Saturday parade will be capped by a grand fireworks display.

The tourism department hopes that the renewed interest in "Wow Philippines" will continue even after Christmas. Delos Reyes said they plan to continue holding regional festivals next year.

Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said the revival of "Wow Philippines," which stopped four years ago due to stiff competition from the Baywalk area and lackluster development, should encourage the public to return to the Walled City.

"Intramuros will be a one-stop venue where domestic and foreign tourists can experience the best of our 7,107 islands -- our destinations," he said.

By Kristine L. Alave
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 20:32:00 12/06/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- How do Filipinos celebrate Christmas? Let us count the ways.

In Manila, radio stations bust out the Christmas songbook even before December arrives. The Christmas tree and the lights are up by November and by December, Manila is ablaze with Tivoli lights and festive neon signs.

In Pampanga, there’s the giant Christmas lantern festival that towns compete for. There’s the Belen or nativity scene showcase in Bicol, the dawn Masses nationwide, the parades, and the native delicacies and spreads that Filipinos look forward to every year.

For Filipinos and tourists, there’s no need to travel to the provinces to witness and taste the Philippine holiday celebrations as the Department of Tourism has revived "Wow Philippines" precisely to give local and foreign tourists a glimpse of how Christmas is celebrated throughout the country.

Romulo Delos Reyes, Department of Tourism director for special projects, said the Christmas-themed festivities in Intramuros will be an opportunity to highlight the best of Filipino culture, food, music, and wares. After all, nobody comes close to Filipinos when it comes to celebrating Christmas, he said.

“Every weekend, there will be a festival related to Christmas. We will have the ‘Pastores a Belen’ show, which is from Bicol. On the last weekend, we will bring the giant Christmas lanterns of Pampanga,” delos Reyes said in an interview.


He also noted that the Christmas exhibition in "Wow Philippines" is aimed at injecting a sense of Filipino pride to the holidays.

“It’s really about bringing back people to Intramuros and developing a sense of pride in being Filipino,” delos Reyes said.

Senator Richard Gordon, former tourism secretary, said the Christmas festival in Intramuros should spur domestic tourism.

He urged families to bring their children to the Walled City this holiday season instead of the malls, where they have to spend money to enjoy the attractions. “It’s cheaper here and it’s educational,” he said.

Aside from the festivals, there will also be pop concerts, zarzuelas, and plays at the small stage on Anda St., he said. The tourism department also set up bazaars inside the "Wow Philippines" tent to showcase regional products under the Department of Trade’s "One Town, One Product" project.

Tourists who want to sample native Filipino foods and rice cakes can have their fill at the food stalls located in the compound.

Bambi Harper, head of the Intramuros Administration, said there will also be an exhibit of the nativity scenes crafted by the late national artist Ramon Obusan sometime this month.

On Friday night, for instance, throngs of tourists were treated to exhibits showing model houses and musical styles from the Mayoyao and Kalinga tribes. There was also a Hispanic “bachelor pad” complete with reproduction furniture and photographs.

All model houses were complete with “residents” in full costume who danced and played native musical instruments.

The Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group also graced the Friday night festivities with its thanksgiving dances and rituals at the Bahay Tagalog, Torogan, Kalinga Village. The UP Singing Ambassadors also performed Christmas songs.

There was also a parade of period inspired floats depicting historical themes. The parade, called Pinoy, Pinas, will be held on Fridays to Sundays at 6:30 p.m. The Saturday parade will be capped by a grand fireworks display.

The tourism department hopes that the renewed interest in "Wow Philippines" will continue even after Christmas. Delos Reyes said they plan to continue holding regional festivals next year.

Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said the revival of "Wow Philippines," which stopped four years ago due to stiff competition from the Baywalk area and lackluster development, should encourage the public to return to the Walled City.

"Intramuros will be a one-stop venue where domestic and foreign tourists can experience the best of our 7,107 islands -- our destinations," he said.

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/5049/november080to8.th.jpg (http://img148.imageshack.us/my.php?image=november080to8.jpg)

^^ go ahead and make your comments :) it was taken this November 2008

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/5049/november080to8.th.jpg (http://img148.imageshack.us/my.php?image=november080to8.jpg)

^^ go ahead and make your comments :) it was taken this November 2008

Is that the right color?

but good for them for repainting it.

Is that the right color?

but good for them for repainting it.

What ever the Augustinians and/or government do with San Agustine Church, they need to ask permission first as the place is a World Heritage site. I guess that the the approve colors then.

What ever the Augustinians and/or government do with San Agustine Church, they need to ask permission first as the place is a World Heritage site. I guess that the the approve colors then.

Animo, Intramuros may be old but not that old. To call it Medieval fortification is stretching it quite a bit. :)

Its design was based upon a medieval castle structure and covered 64 hectares of land, surrounded by 8 meter thick stones and high walls that rise 22 meters. At the turn of the 20th century, the great American architect and city planner Daniel Burnham noted that "the old walled city of Intramuros at the mouth of the Pasig River is one of the best preserved medieval cities anywhere in the world."

:)

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/5049/november080to8.th.jpg (http://img148.imageshack.us/my.php?image=november080to8.jpg)

^^ go ahead and make your comments :) it was taken this November 2008

Looks a lot more better! :D

Animo, Intramuros may be old but not that old. To call it Medieval fortification is stretching it quite a bit. :)

Its design was based upon a medieval castle structure and covered 64 hectares of land, surrounded by 8 meter thick stones and high walls that rise 22 meters. At the turn of the 20th century, the great American architect and city planner Daniel Burnham noted that "the old walled city of Intramuros at the mouth of the Pasig River is one of the best preserved medieval cities anywhere in the world."

:)

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/5049/november080to8.th.jpg (http://img148.imageshack.us/my.php?image=november080to8.jpg)

^^ go ahead and make your comments :) it was taken this November 2008

Looks a lot more better! :D

Its design was based upon a medieval castle structure and covered 64 hectares of land, surrounded by 8 meter thick stones and high walls that rise 22 meters. At the turn of the 20th century, the great American architect and city planner Daniel Burnham noted that "the old walled city of Intramuros at the mouth of the Pasig River is one of the best preserved medieval cities anywhere in the world."

:)


Looks a lot more better! :D


Perhaps you need to do more research on the timeline of when truly the Medieval period begun and ended. :)

Its design was based upon a medieval castle structure and covered 64 hectares of land, surrounded by 8 meter thick stones and high walls that rise 22 meters. At the turn of the 20th century, the great American architect and city planner Daniel Burnham noted that "the old walled city of Intramuros at the mouth of the Pasig River is one of the best preserved medieval cities anywhere in the world."

:)


Looks a lot more better! :D


Perhaps you need to do more research on the timeline of when truly the Medieval period begun and ended. :)

Animo this one is for you!!:)

http://eawc.evansville.edu/chronology/mepage.htm

Animo this one is for you!!:)

http://eawc.evansville.edu/chronology/mepage.htm

Medieval European History

The Dark Ages. That's one of the terms used to describe nearly 1000 years of history-a history that is often hard to understand due to a lack of surviving documents, and often is clouded by myth and legends. Western Europe was under the rule of hundreds of feudal lords and kings. Castles dominated the landscape, and entire cities were built behind protective walls.

The Roman Empire formally legalized Christianity during the 4th century, and soon afterward, the zeal and evangelism of practitioners spread this faith throughout Western Europe as far west as Ireland. The Church would be one of the most powerful medieval institutions, controlling publication of books and the making of laws. Much of medieval Europe's art and architecture has a direct connection to the Christian church.

Knights, soldiers, peasants and pilgrims marched along European roads and trails during the Crusades and brought back with them stories of differing cultures, and began to adopt their architecture, tales of Romance, and advances in medicine. Trade was both a blessing and curse. Merchants began importing silks, cottons and rare spices from all over the known world. But these ships would also bring the horror that became known as the Black Death. The disease ravaged Asia, before wiping out nearly one-third of Western Europe.

Wars took their toll, from William the Conqueror's invasion of England in 1066, to the Hundred Year's War that ended in 1453, there were few years that didn't see battles raging in some part of Europe. This was an era of siege warfare-catapults, trebuchets, battering rams, and towers. Men fought hand-to-hand in the thousands in bloody conflicts using swords, axes, longbows, crossbows, stones and daggers. Medieval Europe saw some humanity-changing developments, such as Gutenberg's moveable types press in the middle of the 15th century. This would bring printed material to the masses, and improve communication between societies. Marco Polo would popularize the account of his voyage to the Orient, and intrigue Europeans about this exotic land.

Through these centuries, Europe was slowly waking from a harsh slumber, and begin to sow the seeds of a Renaissance.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Asia during the Middle Ages

Marco Polo was not the first Westerner to travel to the Orient and return with amazing stories of this different culture, but his accounts published in the late 13th and early 14th centuries were the first to be widely read throughout Europe.

Medieval Asia had far surpassed the West in the development of warfare, communication and science. Gunpowder was widely used as early as the 11th century and they were using moveable type printing five hundred years before Gutenberg created his press. Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism were the dominant philosophies of the Far East during the Middle Ages.

Medieval Asia was the kingdom of the Khans. Never before had any person controlled as much land as Genghis Kahn. He built his power unifying separate Mongol tribes before expanding his kingdom south and west. He and his grandson, Kublai Khan, controlled lands in China, Burma, Central Asia, Russia, Iran, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe. Estimates are that the Mongol armies reduced the population of China by nearly a third. Genghis Khan was a pagan who tolerated nearly every religion except Islam, and their culture often suffered the harshest treatment from Mongol armies. The Khan armies pushed as far west as Jerusalem before being defeated in 1260.

The Middle Ages were an unsurpassed era for Chinese ceramics and painting. Medieval architectural masterpieces such as Angkor Wat in Cambodia, the Great South Gate in Todaiji, Japan, and the Tien-ning Temple in Peking, China are some of the surviving constructs from this era.

The Black Death, which would later ravage Western Europe had its beginnings in Asia, where it wiped out large populations in China in 1331. China flourished again late in the medieval era during the famed Ming Dynasty. In Japan these later Middle Age centuries saw a return to the traditional Shinto faith and the continuing popularity of Zen Buddhism.

http://www.medieval-life.net/life_main.htm

Medieval European History

The Dark Ages. That's one of the terms used to describe nearly 1000 years of history-a history that is often hard to understand due to a lack of surviving documents, and often is clouded by myth and legends. Western Europe was under the rule of hundreds of feudal lords and kings. Castles dominated the landscape, and entire cities were built behind protective walls.

The Roman Empire formally legalized Christianity during the 4th century, and soon afterward, the zeal and evangelism of practitioners spread this faith throughout Western Europe as far west as Ireland. The Church would be one of the most powerful medieval institutions, controlling publication of books and the making of laws. Much of medieval Europe's art and architecture has a direct connection to the Christian church.

Knights, soldiers, peasants and pilgrims marched along European roads and trails during the Crusades and brought back with them stories of differing cultures, and began to adopt their architecture, tales of Romance, and advances in medicine. Trade was both a blessing and curse. Merchants began importing silks, cottons and rare spices from all over the known world. But these ships would also bring the horror that became known as the Black Death. The disease ravaged Asia, before wiping out nearly one-third of Western Europe.

Wars took their toll, from William the Conqueror's invasion of England in 1066, to the Hundred Year's War that ended in 1453, there were few years that didn't see battles raging in some part of Europe. This was an era of siege warfare-catapults, trebuchets, battering rams, and towers. Men fought hand-to-hand in the thousands in bloody conflicts using swords, axes, longbows, crossbows, stones and daggers. Medieval Europe saw some humanity-changing developments, such as Gutenberg's moveable types press in the middle of the 15th century. This would bring printed material to the masses, and improve communication between societies. Marco Polo would popularize the account of his voyage to the Orient, and intrigue Europeans about this exotic land.

Through these centuries, Europe was slowly waking from a harsh slumber, and begin to sow the seeds of a Renaissance.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Asia during the Middle Ages

Marco Polo was not the first Westerner to travel to the Orient and return with amazing stories of this different culture, but his accounts published in the late 13th and early 14th centuries were the first to be widely read throughout Europe.

Medieval Asia had far surpassed the West in the development of warfare, communication and science. Gunpowder was widely used as early as the 11th century and they were using moveable type printing five hundred years before Gutenberg created his press. Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism were the dominant philosophies of the Far East during the Middle Ages.

Medieval Asia was the kingdom of the Khans. Never before had any person controlled as much land as Genghis Kahn. He built his power unifying separate Mongol tribes before expanding his kingdom south and west. He and his grandson, Kublai Khan, controlled lands in China, Burma, Central Asia, Russia, Iran, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe. Estimates are that the Mongol armies reduced the population of China by nearly a third. Genghis Khan was a pagan who tolerated nearly every religion except Islam, and their culture often suffered the harshest treatment from Mongol armies. The Khan armies pushed as far west as Jerusalem before being defeated in 1260.

The Middle Ages were an unsurpassed era for Chinese ceramics and painting. Medieval architectural masterpieces such as Angkor Wat in Cambodia, the Great South Gate in Todaiji, Japan, and the Tien-ning Temple in Peking, China are some of the surviving constructs from this era.

The Black Death, which would later ravage Western Europe had its beginnings in Asia, where it wiped out large populations in China in 1331. China flourished again late in the medieval era during the famed Ming Dynasty. In Japan these later Middle Age centuries saw a return to the traditional Shinto faith and the continuing popularity of Zen Buddhism.

http://www.medieval-life.net/life_main.htm

But is there a strict time line that divides history into time epoch?

If there are time epochs, what follows the Medieval? Will Intramuros then be, under the classification of the next epoch?

But is there a strict time line that divides history into time epoch?

If there are time epochs, what follows the Medieval? Will Intramuros then be, under the classification of the next epoch?

But is there a strict time line that divides history into time epoch?

If there are time epochs, what follows the Medieval? Will Intramuros then be, under the classification of the next epoch?

The time period of the Europeans voyage to conquer foreign land were considered the Renaissance although the timeline of the Medieval period between European countries differs, just do a bit of research, there will be a timeline on it.

But is there a strict time line that divides history into time epoch?

If there are time epochs, what follows the Medieval? Will Intramuros then be, under the classification of the next epoch?

The time period of the Europeans voyage to conquer foreign land were considered the Renaissance although the timeline of the Medieval period between European countries differs, just do a bit of research, there will be a timeline on it.