MANILA—The Centro de Turismo Intramuros, a new tourist hub designed to enrich visitor interactions with Manila's historic Walled City, was officially launched on Sunday. Situated along Calle Arzobispo within the ruins of San Ignacio Church, this initiative seeks to blend education with engagement, focusing on the city's extensive heritage.
According to Philippines News Agency, Intramuros Administrator, the center was established through collaborations between the Office of the President, the Office of the First Lady, the Department of Tourism, and the Intramuros Administration. It houses a museum featuring around 8,000 items, predominantly ecclesiastical artifacts from the Museo de Intramuros, aiming to provide an immersive exploration of Intramuros from its pre-colonial beginnings through its role in the Spanish colonial era, its devastation during World War II, and its ongoing revitalization.
Padilla emphasized that the Centro de Turismo Intramuros serves as a testament to the resilience and historical significance of Intramuros, offering insights into its challenging past and hopes for a prosperous future. The center aligns with the ideals of St. Ignatius, promoting education and exploration through its exhibits.
Additionally, the center includes an indoor amphitheater that will serve as a venue for various functions, enhancing its role as an income-generating entity for the Intramuros Administration. John Paolo Castro, president of the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers and leader of the interior design team selected by First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, noted that the design was specifically crafted to make the center a "first stop" for tourists, providing an overview of what to expect during their visit to Intramuros.
Castro also highlighted the First Lady's directive to incorporate interactive elements, such as audio-visual presentations, to appeal to younger audiences and make the historical narratives more engaging. "It was a special request from the First Lady. She envisioned a space where interaction enhances the educational experience and showcases our rich history to both locals and tourists," Castro said.
Centro de Turismo Intramuros is set to open to the public on June 12, coinciding with the 126th commemoration of Philippine Independence Day, marking a new chapter in the cultural life of Manila.