Senator Pia Cayetano (MNS Photo)
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Senator Pia Cayetano has filed a resolution calling for an investigation into the construction of a condominium tower in Manila that heritage advocates oppose because it would despoil the Rizal Monument.
Senate Resolution No.824 filed by Cayetano, who chairs the committee on education, arts and culture, Wednesday said the construction of DMCI Homes’ Torre de Manila would not only spoil the view of the monument but also disrespect the memory of national hero Jose Rizal.
Last month, the Manila City council, responding to the clamor of those opposed to the condominium’s construction, unanimously passed a resolution suspending Torre de Manila’s building permit for violating zoning ordinances.
An online petition on Change.org initiated by tourist guide and historian Carlos Celdran has so far gathered more than 8,200 signatures.
Cayetano’s resolution notes that, “the Rizal Park and Monument is regarded not only as an artistic and cultural icon and famous tourist site,” but is also where “momentous events in our history” have taken place.
It also said there is a need to review the laws and policies governing the preservation of national and historical sites.
Among these are:
Article XIV, Section 15 of the Constitution: ‘The State shall conserve, promote, and popularize the nation’s historical and cultural heritage and resources, as well as artistic creations’
Republic Act No.4846, otherwise known as the “Cultural Properties Preservation and Protection Act,” which defines a national cultural treasure as “a unique object found locally, possessing outstanding historical, cultural, artistic and/or scientific value which is highly significant and important to this country and nation”
Republic Act No. 10066 or the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, which lays down guidelines for local government units in maintaining a heritage zone, including the preservation of the “appearance of streets, parks, monuments…as close to their appearance at the time the area was of most importance to Philippine history as determined by the National Historical Institute.” (MNS)