Intramuros, the Walled City of Manila, is home to Spanish-era structures that have withstood wars. Today, these structures are mostly open to the public for everyone to know its history. But did you know that these heritage sites are also free to use for events, exhibits, and activities? Yes, they are, as long as it is used to promote culture, history, and creativity.
Intramuros Administration will be launching the microsite through which interested individuals and parties can apply. The agency hopes to give creatives and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) an accessible location to make up for the opportunities they’ve lost to the pandemic.
[READ: You can open up your dream cafe or small business in Intramuros]
There are 18 usable Intramuros activity areas, which include open-air parks, gardens, and a roof deck. These are located around and inside the perimeter of the Walled City. Most allow for power provisions, too, subject to fees.
Outdoor locations:
- Fort Santiago
- Baluartillo de San Francisco Tunnel and Roof Deck
- Bamboo Garden (requires power generator)
- Rajah Sulayman Theater
- Promenade Soledad
- Almacenes Reales
- Baluarte de San Diego
- Puerta Real Gardens
- Baluarte de San Andres (requires power generator)
- ASEAN Gardens
- Arzobispo Park (requires power generator)
- Plaza Roma (requires power generator)
- President’s Gallery (requires power generator)
- PC Barracks
- Legazpi Urdaneta Monument Plaza (requires power generator)
- Plazuela de Santa Isabel
- Baluarte de Dilao (requires power generator)
Two indoor locations—Teatrillo and Casa Blanca—are free for use but with certain prohibitions like eating, playing loud music, use of drones, rearranging furniture or fixtures, use of flash photography, and high-intensity lights.
For both indoor and outdoor locations, the following restrictions apply:
- Smoking and use of smoke machines, sky lanterns or helium-filled balloons
- Violent scenes and revealing or indecent outfits
For exhibits, art installations, or the conduct of performance art, organizers are required to submit a curatorial statement and a detailed inventory of all items to be displayed or used. Meanwhile, for activities that require an audience (concerts, lectures, or other gatherings), applicable entrance fees shall still apply.
Fees for use of electricity, maintenance and security staff, and dressing room are also applicable. See table of charges here.
And, of course, organizers shall keep the sites clean after use.
To apply for the free use of Intramuros facilities, fill out this online form or email tourism@intramuros.gov.ph.
Another Intramuros initiative, on the other hand, lets small businesses hold pop-ups within the historic walled city for as little as P25/sqm a day. This affordable option also allows MSMEs to choose their own schedule and location within Intramuros.