Gordon invites all to Intramuros History Town

Independent Senator Richard J. Gordon has called on foreign and local tourists to visit the Intramuros, saying that the Walled City has been transformed into a major venue for indigenous Philippine culture, crafts and showpieces.

Gordon, chairman of the Senate tourism committee, sounded off the invitation as he led the re-opening of the Intramuros as the " History Town of the Philippines " yesterday afternoon.

"With the revival of Intramuros as the country's History Town , foreign and local tourists have a great place to go to. I also encourage Filipino families and students to visit the Walled City , and explore its beauty and richness," he said.

"Not only do we have Fort Santiago , the Light and Sound Museum , the Oceanarium, and other attractions, but also we now have a place for cultural programs, parades, restaurants featuring all varieties of native dishes, and endless bazaars where you can find hard to find Filipino products," he added.

The Senator lauded Tourism Secretary Ace Durano, Tourism Undersecretary Oscar Palabyab, the Intramurous Administration, and the heads of all the agencies that contributed efforts to open Intramuros History Town .

During his term as Tourism Secretary from 2001 to 2003, Gordon led efforts to revive the Walled City through the Wow Intramuros project - which preceded Intramuros History Town .

The project transformed Intramuros into a major tourist attraction with daily events, bazaars featuring crafts and products from all over the Philippines , entertainment ranging from ethnic shows to rock concerts, restaurants, and al fresco dining along cobblestone streets.

He also commissioned the building of the Light and Sound Museum in Intramuros that tells the history of the Philippines .

"The opening of Intramuros History Town comes as we confront the effects of global recession. We can rely on tourism during these times to help bring in and spread much needed livelihood and job opportunities," he said.

"In the case of Intramuros, we have seen taho (soya) vendors making P2,000 pesos a day and Caritela (cart) drivers making even more - proving that tourism means entrepreneurship and tourism means jobs," he added.

In 2003, when the revival of Intramuros was first launched, the Intramuros administration recorded the number of visitors at 2,691,426 with revenues reaching P52 million and in the following year, the number of visitors went down to 1,771,395 with revenues reaching P30.2 million.

Intramuros History Town Philippines this year will be open daily until from Dec. 5 to 30. Highlights in its Grand Opening include demonstrations of indigenous games, an electric parade, performances from various bands and chorale groups, and a major fireworks display.

Sights to see include native architecture such as the new frontage of the Clamshell which is modeled after a 19th Century Bachelor's House, a new Torogan, Kalinga octagonal hut, Mayoyao house, and the pook Alitaptap.

Various Filipino prducts will be available at souvenir shops along Sta. Lucia Street and the PC Barracks will be a daily venue for rock bands and concerts.