Rizal Park: Looking To The Future

Source: NPDC Website Logo

Last Thursday April 14,  I had a chance to listen to the National Parks Development Committee (NPDC) Executive Director Juliet Horfilla Villegas, a veteran of the tourism industry about the revival of Rizal Park to its former glory.

photo source: NPDC website

Rizal Park, the site traces the start of   to the Spanish era developments and the Kilometer Zero marker of the Philippines.From the French word "lunette" meaning half moon, they called it Luneta because of its shape and it is the business center at that time.

Photo of Fountain Source: National Parks website

Director Villegas preliminary talked about the history of Rizal Park from our national hero Dr. Jose Rizal's executions on Dec 30, 1896 (which will soon be celebrated the 150th birth anniversary on June 19), declaration  of  Independence Day from American rule on July4,1946, site of political and memorable rallies of Ferdinand Marcos and Corazon Aquino to the presidential inauguration of Noynoy Aquino.

Then the presentation of now and then changes, reminiscing the area or part of Luneta that marked every individuals life.NPDC has embarked on a rapid refurbishment blitz that has so far amazed and awe "I call it the 'shock treatment' people come here and surprised at how beautiful and clean Rizal park has become" explains Director Villegas. I myself noticed it also as we rode the TRANVIA of Manila Ocean Park, like the dancing water fountain at the Lagoon, center pavements, vibrant children's playground, CCTV cameras, newly painted giant animal status the clean restrooms and environment, more lights, and roving personnel and securities.

Soon to be revived are the drinking fountains and putting free WiFi zone area, repair the underground drainage system and possible underground parking spaces and passages.Moreover being touted the one of  events venue for Cirque du Soleil troupe from June 23 to July 10, 2011 and the World Cup Philippines Year 2 on April 30 and May 15.

The Director envisions the new Rizal Park as a "Social Equalizer" and with ample volunteer and private-sector support, NPDC forecast its complete facelift well ahead of its 2016 deadline. "We hope to transform Rizal Park into a world-class urban park where Filipinos and visitors can rediscover history and heritage amidst the fresh air from the famed Manila Bay" remarks the Director.

National Parks Development Committee

Address: T.M. Kalaw St., Ermita Manila P.O. Box 4053 Manila

Tel: (632) 302-7381

Fax: (632)3027119

Web: www.nationalparks.ph