BY HANAH TABIOS * MINKA TIANGCO
The Intramuros Administration considers the rehabilitation of the long-neglected Lagusnilad Underpass as a welcome development to boost the tourism in Intramuros, Manila which is also called the “Walled City.”
Lawyer Guiller Asido, Intramuros Administration administrator, said Monday the renovation of the area is not just a push for improving access to destinations but also more importantly as an urban renewal initiative.
Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, along with other city government officials, led the soft opening of the now clean and green underpass.
The Lagusnilad Underpass serves as a connecting passage to the main Manila community and the city’s vast walled enclosure.
Built in 1571, Intramuros is famous for its century-old structures and rich historical value which is a favorite destination for city walking tours.
Visitors in the Walled City reached 3,325,698 in 2019, about 480,000 higher than in 2018, translating to P100,951,324 in tourism revenues.
Asido said the IA board has been pushing for the Lagusnilad rehabilitation since he assumed his post in 2017. It was only under the term of Manila Mayor Isko Moreno when the project materialized.
Social media users, primarily those who often pass by the route, have lauded the efforts of the local government unit in rehabilitating the area which has been neglected for many years.
From its untidy image, Lagusnilad now shows the rich culture of the Philippine capital city through a massive mural depicting significant events in Philippine history, as well as showcasing Intramuros and the National Museum through wide attracting and well-lighted photographs.
A portion the mural showcases the frontline workers in the battle against the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), such as medical and delivery workers.
“As a matter of gratitude to our frontliners, there is a space there (in the mural) that recognizes the effort of our medical frontliners and all other type of frontliners,” Domagoso told reporters.
Aside from its vertical gardens, many have also expressed their delight at signages written in Baybayin, the pre-colonial writing script of the Philippines.
Vertical gardens were installed on the walls in line with Domagoso’s vision to create more green spaces in the capital city.
An interactive info desk that gives the public information about the city was also installed in the underpass.
Its floors were fitted with non-skid tiles so people, particularly the elderly, will not slip while walking, especially during the rainy season.
The underpass was also given ample lighting and closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to ensure the safety of pedestrians.
Earlier, the Manila Department of Engineering and Public Works said the underpass’ modern look is inspired by the city’s history.
The Manila city government partnered with University of Santo Tomas College of Architecture alumni and faculty Architects Juanito Malaga, John Benedict Fallorina, Sean Patrick Ortiz, Leon Centeno Tuazon; and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts for the underpass’ overall design.
The mural artists include Marianne Rios, Jano Gonzales, and Ianna Engano; while those who made the signages are Raven Angel Rivota, Edrian Garcia, and John Leyson.
BOOKS FROM UNDERGROUND
Lagusnilad underpass’ renovation led to the displacement of several vendors who sold goods. However, the iconic Books from Underground was allowed to keep its place.
It used to be a small stall with wooden shelves brimming with books and random book stacks at the heart of the underpass.
Now, the thrift bookstore was moved near the Manila City Hall entry/exit point of the underpass. It was also given new bookshelves to display its books.
AJ Laberinto, Books from Underground’s owner, said that although the new space has its limitations, they will “make the most with what was provided.”
