More on Intramuros

BizLinks had devoted two columns to the restoration of the Walled City to become a world-class tourist destination, not just by foreigners but also locals. Among the many reasons that I had mentioned why you should visit Intramuros, I forgot one more: the golf course.

Although this is not in the priority list of the masterplan of Intramuros Administration, the 18-hole Club Intramuros is definitely one good drawing point for visitors to the country to consider when coming over for their vacation.

A par 66, the golf course is short. But beware of the many hazards that would sorely test a golfer’s mettle. For a businessman who has time for a quick four-hour game, Intramuros is perfect until evening since it’s well illuminated for night golf.

And recently, Bayleaf opened within the Walled City. After golf, it’s easy to unwind in its restaurant or bar before heading back to your hotel. Or you could choose to stay in this hotel and be in close proximity to the charm of the old world that is Intramuros.

Restoring Intramuros

We have some readers who had read my columns on Intramuros, and have shared some thoughts. This first one is from Jonathan R. Danao, who writes:

“I have read your two articles (27 Wonders of Intramuros and “New” Intramuros Needed) in your column. I totally agree with what you have written. If Intramuros is fully restored to its former grandeur, this will elicit interest among us provincianos who would like to see the historic past of Manila.

“We can conduct educational tours in this historical site instead of bringing the students to the malls and resorts. For me who is from Bacolod City, the tour will give us a more vivid picture of what transpired in our country 400 years ago instead of reading this in our history books.

“Considering that Intramuros is just a kilometer away from the South Harbor, we people from the Visayas and Mindanao will find it convenient to take the boat from any province. This can help domestic tourism.

“Maybe you can also consider putting up a monorail for faster and convenient way of touring this historical site. We must consider that normally tourist stay in our country maybe three to four days. They have other places to visit or see.

“All our plans and visions will never be realized if the restoration of Intramuros is at this pace. I would like to suggest that the informal settlers be relocated first.”

History buff

Another reader, apparently not Filipino, sent a letter too. Here is what Chris Mitchell wrote:

“Your article on Intramuros … is most interesting.

“I am a history buff and love to visit places such as this. I wonder why it is not publicized more: I have been a frequent visitor to the Bureau of Immigration there for the last 18 months, but only recently found out about Intramuros and Fort Santiago.

“I did write to the Intramuros Administration, but didn’t receive a reply. Boo Chanco also had an article on it recently. With a bit more imagination and effort, this whole area could be made into a terrific tourist place, not only for foreigners but also to teach Filipinos a bit about their history and heritage.

“I think Boo mentioned that the excuse for it not being developed was because of squatters in the area!

“Would you please let me know how you obtained your information on Intramuros? Is there a brochure available? If so, how can I get a copy?”

Pioneer status

Another reader, J. J. Acopio So, came forward with a suggestion on how the Intramuros Administration could speed up its plans. Please read his short note.

“You might like to consider the following suggestion – the investment plan should be registered with the Board of Investments on a pioneer status to avail of tax and other incentives.

“Also, it provides an attractive payback period on the investment. It is possible that other countries’ plan may have such a period for comparison purposes.”

Squatters

Twice, the problem of “squatters” living within and surrounding the Walled City had been mentioned. Apparently, Intramuros Administration has something cooking on this. I promise to devote another column on this in the future.

Those interested in visiting the Walled City may call the Intramuros Visitors Center at 527-2961, Fort Santiago Office at 527-572, Plaza San Luis Complex at 527-4084 and 527-4088. Or you may visit the Intramuros Administration’s main office at Palacio del Governador, A. Soriano Ave cor. Gen. Luna St. Or call 527-3138 and 527-3155. They have a website too at www.intramuros.ph. And yes, they have brochures that give a summary of the Walled City’s sights.

Bits and pieces

Our second to the last letter sender for this column is Joel Mangilit who has a few words to share on the Department of Finance’s recent ruling requiring insurance companies to hike their paid-up capitalization. Here goes.

“Just wondering, maybe rather than DOF focusing on minimal capital requirement, a better criteria would be risk exposure to capital ratio.

“A small capitalized company, but well managed, would better protect the public from a big mismanaged company. What good is a P250 million capitalization if risk exposure is not managed, monitored nor a criteria for protecting the public?”

Lastly from Noel Medina: “Thank you for your article (Increase cigarette tax and save lives). Filipinos need to be educated about the matter and your column was a great help. More power to Bizlinks.”

Champions League 2012 National Collegiate Championship

Faith Academy of Tanauan, Batangas is hosting the first two playing days of Round 16 (Sweet 16) “step-ladder knock out” phase of Champion League 2012 National Collegiate Championship. All games at Batangas will be covered live by ABS-CBN Network and aired over Channel Studio 23.

La Finns Scholastica Lionhearts, North Luzon champion, and University of Batangas Brahmans, South Luzon champion, will meet in the Game 1 while the top Metro Manila qualifiers will knock each other out in Games 2.

Featured in the second playing date are the match-ups between UAAP 4th placer DLSU Green Archers and NCAA 4th placer Perpetual Help Altas; and in the other game, winners of November 9 games. Survivors of the Batangas games will advance to the next level and will play in Cebu City.

Visit www.CollegiateChampionsLeague.net for more details.

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Should you wish to share any insights, write me at Link Edge, 25th Floor, 139 Corporate Center, Valero Street, Salcedo Village, 1227 Makati City. Or e-mail me at [email protected]. For a compilation of previous articles, visit www.BizlinksPhilippines.net.