Children’s Playground at the Rizal Park. Photo courtesy: Yancy Lim, PNA
The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) rehabilitated two of Metro Manila’s attractions: the Children’s Playground at the Rizal Park and the Lights and Sounds Museum in Intramuros, Manila.
TIEZA’s twin rehabilitation projects are in cognizance with the “Build Better More” flagship infrastructure program of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., based on the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028.
Under his administration, rehabilitation and enhancement of various tourist attractions nationwide were included as part of the massive infrastructure programs.
Aside from building major roads, bridges, and other infrastructure projects, President Marcos, a known museum and cultural heritage buff, specifically directed various agencies to include in the upgrade of cultural and historical landmarks across the country as part of their respective projects.
While the Philippines is known for its stunning beaches, the Marcos Jr. administration is working to diversify tourist experiences such as promoting cultural tourism, highlighting the country’s rich history, traditions, and art.
Rizal Park Children’s Playground, Revamped
Efforts are underway to rehabilitate a number of historical sites, enhance museums and create new attractions to showcase the country’s cultural heritage. One of these efforts by the Marcos Jr. administration is the Children’s Playground at Rizal Park.
Rizal Park, the nation’s premier urban park, noted for its historical significance and national landmark, holds a special place in the hearts of Filipinos. But beyond its historical mandate, it serves as a vital green space and recreational hub for families.
The vacation of relatives from far-flung provinces may not be complete without visiting the famous Luneta Park.
Luneta Park is not only for tourists; it is a place for family bonding, where all clan members can enjoy themselves, especially children. But the Children’s Playground was temporarily closed on June 11, 2024, to give way for the enhancement and upgrade of the area.
Outdated and potentially hazardous equipment would be replaced with modern, age-appropriate play structures that meet stringent safety standards. Surfaces have been upgraded to provide safer landing areas for children of all ages.
The upgraded playground now incorporates features to ensure accessibility for children with disabilities, promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for play. The rehabilitation plan stands to make it more interactive to encourage creativity, physical activity, and cognitive development.
Part of the plan is the aesthetic upgrade of the playground with engaging designs and landscaping that creates a more welcoming and stimulating environment to make everyone comfortable.
Children who missed Rizal Park playground need not wait much. The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) announced the reopening of the Rizal Park Children’s Playground, which will take place on July 25.
Experience and retrace history with Philippine National Hero Jose Rizal with lights and sounds that will surely take you back in time. Photo courtesy: TIEZA
Rehab, Modernization of the Lights and Sounds Museum
In compliance with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., another rehabilitation effort of TIEZA is the Lights and Sounds Museum in Victoria Street, Intramuros, which is the Lights and Sounds Museum meant to enhance the museum’s infrastructure and overall visitor experience.
The primary objective of the rehabilitation plan is to restore and upgrade the lights and sound facilities, ensuring it meets modern standards for safety and accessibility and, at the same time, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
According to TIEZA, aside from boosting tourism, the rehabilitation of these two sites is meant to enhance the quality of life and community development, since most of the visitors are local families.
Moreover, the ultimate objective of the twin projects is to preserve the country’s history and cultural heritage.
The rehabilitation of the Children’s Playground and the Lights and Sounds Museum is the Marcos Jr. administration’s way of committing to enhance public spaces and provide quality recreational opportunities for its citizens. (PBS)
