The latest news from the Rizal Memorial Complex (RMC) said the sale of the treasured national sports mecca has been stopped.
That’s truly heartwarming, to say the least; it’s a resounding triumph of culture and noble values over crass commercialism.
Veteran scribe Dennis Principe said the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) declared Rizal Memorial a national historical landmark. As such, the sports complex cannot be “demolished or converted into something else.”
In a resolution approved by the NHCP board last March 27, it identified the complex as “an important Cultural Property” because of its historical significance.
The NHCP mentioned the RMC’s contribution, not only in past sports events, but also its role during World War II, as well as its hosting of many entertainment, religious and social events.
A resolution states that “anything declared by the NHCP as an important cultural property will get protection from any attempt to modify, demolish or sell” (said property).
This triumphant twist should count as a big upset for the Manila City Hall and its top boarder, Mayor Erap Estrada, who has been driving hard for the sale of the RMC to a powerful conglomerate.
Mayor Estrada’s stated purpose was to raise more funds for City Hall, which has been pursuing an all-out rebuilding and expansion program that also includes harsh reclamation projects.
Had Estrada succeeded in the sale of the RMC, the treasured complex, popularly called the Rizal Memorial Stadium, would’ve been torn down and buried in oblivion.
Said Philippine Sports Commission chair Butch Ramirez: “Rest assured of our commitment to protect, preserve and conserve these historical structures, considered as cultural heritage, which will serve as inspiration and pride of today’s Filipino youth and the future generation.”
Ramirez expressed his thanks to the national historical commission and the national museum “with great joy.”
Great win. Cheers!